CONFLUENCE OF POWER AND VISION

By A.M. WEAVER

In Obama “Making Waves I”, Nefertiti creates iconic symbols, using an illustrious repetition of Barack Obama’s last name in conjunction with his image.  The three quarter view of Obama’s head highlighted in red against a cobalt blue background is an electric an ennobling portrait of America’s seventh son.  A seventh son embodies special qualities and gifts of insight and power.

Encased in the first letter of Obama’s name is the peak of an ocean wave, which according to Nefertiti represents Hawaii, where he spent his youth.  The wave also translates as a metaphor for change—the wave of the future.  Obama’s call for change has caused Americans of all persuasions to pause and take note of the current state of affairs in this country and wish for an alternative reality.  Obama’s plan for the country contextualizes in very concrete ways real hope for the future.

This eloquent tribute to Barack Obama is a suitable emblem symbolizing enlightenment.  Beauty and power converge in this linoleum cut print. Each element in the print is carefully thought out and put together and tells a story like a tapestry.

A.M. Weaver is an independent curator and writer based in Philadelphia, PA.  She specializes in modern art from a global perspective with a special interest in contemporary African art.

Contact Weaver: amweaver43(at)aol(dot)com

10/31/08