Ain't I a Woman (Sandra)
Artist
Mickalene Thomas
(American, born 1971)
Date2009
MediumRhinestone, acrylic and enamel on panel, DVD and video monitor
Dimensions36 x 28 in. (91.4 x 71.1 cm)
ClassificationsMixed Media
Credit LineMuseum purchase, 2011
Object numberSN11295
The model for this work is Mickalene Thomas's mother. Thomas's working method consists of constructing elaborate photo shoots complete with hair, makeup, and wardrobe which have been likened to high fashion editorial shoots in their complexity. It is on the resulting material from these photo shoots that Mickalene Thomas has based many of her works. In 2009 she began experimenting with incorporating video records of these events with the resulting works such as in the diptych here. However, Thomas does not allow the viewer entirely into this very personal relationship between sitter and artist. The dialogue between artist and model remains private. Eartha Kitt's A Woman Wouldn't Be Woman provides an artificial soundtrack. The painted portrait and video of the confident and independent Sandra is juxtaposed with the lyrics of the song which promote a stereotypical 1950's version of womanhood.
On View
On viewLocation
- Searing Wing, Gallery J, wall, west
