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This abstract expressionist is an ode to the classic oil painting, “The Banjo Lesson,” by Henry Ossawa Tanner, a prominent African American artist, and was the United States’ first African American celebrity artist.
The meaning of the two paintings are different, however. In “The Banjo,” I specifically reference Black American fatherhood. I admire fathers who are active and present in their children’s lives. This is a celebration of those moments. Even when a father is not able to be with his child for the majority of the child’s life, the effort shown to make a significant presence is incredibly impactful.
I believe the most important things for a child is a parent’s time and love. When I painted this piece, it was at a time when a few Black celebrity men were in the spotlight for their frequent reproduction with various women. It is impossible to be present at even the majority of moments for every child when you have a large number of children living outside of your home. To me, this type of lifestyle should not be praised, no matter how much status or money the parent has. Being present and active in a child’s life means you are raising the child, instead of letting the world raise the child.