Influencers
RBG died. I do not do many portraits, but like many others, I was driven to do one of her. She appeared so fragile but had an inner strength that surpassed her outer body. I tried to draw her that way. I used photos to make sure I got her face accurately. I gave her an egg. She had held and protected my rights and those of all women (and men). I also displayed her with Barbara Jordan. I knew she would not mind. Barbara was from my hometown of Houston. She was the first black woman in the House. She wanted to be a Supreme Court Justice. The two can have a great conversation. Barbara also has an egg. "The Constitutionalists" became the first of four drawings of pairs of women holding eggs.
The second drawing is of Ann Richards and Annie Oakley, titled "The Sharpshooters". Ann has always been a favorite of mine. Once a governor of Texas. Forever outspoken. She was never afraid to fight for what she believed in. She was a strong supporter of women’s rights and her daughter is following in her footsteps today. Annie got her gun. Ann got her voice. But I do believe she could also handle a rifle if she needed to do so. She is the only one of my eight women holding a pair of eggs.
The third drawing is "The Contributors". This one is about the givers and providers. Those who have become successful and have shared their wealth and time to help others. There are hundreds of women I could have put in this drawing. I chose Dolly Parton and Oprah Winfrey. I watched both women work their way to success. I also saw their generosity. I feel those two ladies can have a great conversation here on earth on this piece of paper and well into infinity.
The fourth and last pair is "The Environmentalists". Greta Thunberg and Winona LaDuke. These are the guardians of our future. These two women are early into their lifeworks, but with amazing beginnings. Greta Thunberg (and that is Greta Tintin Eleonora Ermman Thunberg) born January 3, 2003. Both women are activists for the future of our planet. Winona is also working hard to protect the rights of Native Americans. I am just reading her books now. They need our support.
2022
Mixed media draw on paper
72 x 47 inches each (framed)