Tschabalala Self is an American artist who is best known for her depictions of Black female figures using paint, fabric, and reused pieces of her previous works. Tschabalala’s depictions of black female bodies using fabrics she’s collected overtime and sewn together “defy the narrow spaces in which they are forced to exist.” She derives this from the history behind the African-American struggle and oppression in society. Tschabalala Self reclaims the black female body and portrays them to be free of stereotypes without having to fear being punished. Many of her works consist of the colors: Red, Yellow, Violet, Pink, and brown. These colors together help contribute to the depiction of freedom and expression of the figures in her works.
I really like the idea of using fabric in a “painting” style. It’s something I don’t come across often and I think the way Tschabalala shows movement as well adds to the narrative.
