Suzanne Scott Constantine, 2000-2021
mixed media on canvas, 52″ x 36″

This artwork contains multiple layers of acrylic paint overlaid with oil-paint sticks and oil pastels. The female figure, slightly off center, looks into the frame from outside the portal. A woman of African heritage, as demonstrated by her clothing and headdress, she stands firmly, with dignity and hope as she imagines her future. The perimeter of the canvas includes stylized, painted versions of concentric circles, a West African symbol for greatness, charisma, and leadership. The black inner border contains a stylized version of the “spider’s web,” in West African custom meaning wisdom and creativity. The symbols represent the female figure’s birthright.