Bayard Rustin and Champions of Justice events in Little Rock

Here is the new work I created for the Bayard Rustin Champions of Justice events in Little Rock next week. This is the final piece for my exhibit on social justice. I am honored to be a part of this event and look forward to seeing my Little Rock family again.

This work is 47" wide and 40 " high. Its various rainbow patchwork pieces representing a variety of issues and social justice work. This renaissance man appreciated the arts and work made by the hands of marginalized folks. I placed the Presidential Medal of Freedom on his chest. His partner Walter Naegle will receive it from President Obama later this month. 

I look forward to seeing some of you at the events. The evening reception is listed below. On Thursday, November 14 I will be at the Little Rock Central High School National Park Site to share the exhibit with students and community. Then on Saturday, November 16 I will be exhibiting at Philander Smith College where there will be a viewing of the film Brother Outsider the Life of Bayard Rustin and a facilitated discussion with Mandy Carter.

More detail photos of the work below.

This backing is a nod to his pacifism and non-violence approaches to work and life.

Detail of the layers of his face.

Detail showing different fabrics representing the patchwork of social justice causes. One fabric features portions of the U.S. Constitution and another features an African bird pattern. Bayard was a Renaissance man and collected art from artisans that honor the work made by everyday people.

These clouds are above his head. My friend Jay King summed it up beautifully, "I especially like your subtle peace, freedom, and justice up in the clouds. May we someday bring them down to earth."

Details of a music lover's tie and Presidential Medial of Freedom