Inspired By What Came Before
Resident Alien II by Terry Boddie
Here we are in the midst of another Black History Month along with the other customary holidays (Valentine's Day, Presidents' Day) acknowledged this month. Unfortunately, these holidays have become more retail sale events rather than an opportunity to delve into their original intent. Programs around the intended subject are becoming scarce. Even in schools the subject is never really explored with any seriousness especially because it is still on the outskirts of the required academic curriculum. But for some of us the meaning of the month goes deeper and everyday is Black History Month. Our past and what came before inspires what we create and how we will proceed in this world. When we get stuck or when we want to move forward we look to the past for answers, guidance and support. We call upon our ancestors to be our guardians and steer us in the right direction. In literature, film, dance and visual art many artist find their voice invoking the ancestors. Their memory, their story, their energy, their struggle empowers us. Alvin Ailey did this when he reached back and created the dance Revelations that recalls the traditions of the African American church, history and gospel music. We call them forth to be present in our lives and guide us. Amanda Gorman did it when she wrote The Hill We Climb and read it to the nation on January 20th during the inaugural celebration for our 46th President Joe Biden. Maya Angelou did it too when she wrote and read On the Pulse of the Morning for Bill Clinton's inauguration in 1993. "A rock, a river, a tree, Hosts to species long since departed..." How I love that poem.
Invoking inspiration and guidance from our ancestors is a common practice for many artists. It informs their artistic practice like a ritual. Terry Boddie references the ancestors in his etched prints with images of the transatlantic slave trade along with others related to immigration and the stigma attached to it. Mansa Mussa created an multi-layered installation and altar seen as a celebratory piece to their spirit and energy. Shirley Parker Benjamin invokes them by cultural associations in her fiber art piece that celebrate the iconic symbols of associated with West African culture.
This February let us keep the spirit of the month alive through our connection with our ancestors, no matter your ethnicity. If they surface in your dreams or connect in a familiar sound listen to them. Who knows what they are trying to tell you. Maybe it's simply to let you know they are there. Supporting you through the thick and thin of it. Embracing you with open arms to guide you, inspire you and of course, nudge you to keep at it. To keep making art. Your life is art.
Toni Thomas
