Wayne Mann’s “Obama Crossing” (2009) is a retake of Emanuel Leutz’s famous image of “George Washington Crossing the Delaware.” The painting represents the election of Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States, as well as the first African American president. The passengers in the ship are First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, Colin Powell, Jesse Jackson, John Coltrane, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, and David Axelrod. The inclusion of those in the boat represents supporters of President Obama during his campaign.
The mood of the image is both powerful and celebratory, which captured the mood of many black Americans at the time of President Obama’s historical victory in 2008. Having been denied political access, rights, and representation since the establishment of the nation, the election of a black president marked a day that many blacks thought would never happen.
Many cite the election of President Obama as a symbol of America being a “post-racial” society. These people argue that by having a black president, America has moved past its legacy of racism and discrimination.
The mood of the image is both powerful and celebratory, which captured the mood of many black Americans at the time of President Obama’s historical victory in 2008. Having been denied political access, rights, and representation since the establishment of the nation, the election of a black president marked a day that many blacks thought would never happen.
Many cite the election of President Obama as a symbol of America being a “post-racial” society. These people argue that by having a black president, America has moved past its legacy of racism and discrimination.
The racial slurs and negative racial undertones during his presidency have shown this idea to be false.
While progress has been made towards better conditions for minorities, there is still a lot left lacking in the treatment of and resources for people of color.
Works Cited
http://u000172022.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cxeju4KL8Zk
Blog of Artist Wayne Mann
Works Cited
http://u000172022.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cxeju4KL8Zk
Blog of Artist Wayne Mann