The flag has been known as a symbol of patriotism for some, but also a constant reminder of exclusio

The flag has been known as a symbol of patriotism for some, but also a constant reminder of exclusion and a lack of progress, as Benny Andrews explains when speaking on the figure in his painting Did the Bear Sit Under the Tree?, “It is a Black person who is shaking his fist at the very thing that is supposed to be protecting him [the flag] and that he’s operating under.” The flag became a paradox in the Black community, a symbol that all are asked to pledge allegiance to despite injustice, and mistreatment without apology or reform. The artists of Soul of a Nation often juxtapose the flag with scenes of aggression and violence to emphasize this common frustration in an era filled with raising self-awareness and political uproar. Posted by Emani BarakaBenny Andrews (American, 1930-2006). Did the Bear Sit Under a Tree?, 1969. Oil on canvas with painted fabric collage and zipper. Courtesy of Michael Rosenfeld Gallery LLC, New York. Emanuel Collection © 2018 Estate of Benny Andrews/Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY. Courtesy Michael Rosenfeld Gallery, LLC, New York, NYJohn Outterbridge (American born 1933). Traditional Hang-up,Containment Series, 1969. Mixed media, 30 x 25 x 3 in. (76.2 x 63.5 x7.6 cm). Private collection, courtesy Tilton Gallery, New York. © JohnOutterbridge.David Hammons, Black First, America Second, 1970. Body print andscreen print on paper. Private collection, Courtesy Tilton Gallery, New York. © David Hammons.David C. Driskell (American, born 1931). Ghetto Wall #2, 1970. Oil,acrylic, and collage on linen. Courtesy of the artist and DC Moore Gallery, NY. © David Driskell. (Photo: Steven Bates, courtesy DC Moore Gallery, NY) -- source link

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