"Midst" _ Lewis Derogene (PhenomenaLewis) _ Self-Portrait Photograph | 2020 _ 16in x 20in _ Limited Edition of 7 AP - 6 AP Left _
In the self-portrait photograph titled "Midst," the essence of the image is a striking and symbolic representation. The photograph features PhenomenaLewis, a dark-skinned Black woman, who presents her side profile. Her skin is rendered in a dramatic black and white, and she wears distinctive hoop earrings and a yellow head scarf, set against a vivid yellow background. In this evocative self-portrait, PhenomenaLewis positions herself amid a backdrop of vibrant yellow hues, with her turban adorning the background. Her side profile is the focal point, and her gaze is directed toward the distance, creating a sense of contemplation and introspection. This self-portrait, like many of her works, showcases a purposeful darkening of her skin. This approach is rooted in her cultural heritage, particularly the Haitian culture, where artists historically depicted Haitian people with dark brown or Black skin tones as a way of embracing and celebrating their identity. The image becomes a powerful testament to the cultural influences that shape her art and the significance of identity in her creative expression.
