This week’s presentation artist that stood out to me the most was Harmonia Rosales and her artwork, The Creation of God, 2017. Rosales reimagined the creation story Michaelangelo in the Sistine Chapel. She repainted the figures — Jesus, Adam, God, and a chorus of angels as black women. After the artwork was released, there were a lot of reactions towards the series, some good and some bad, but unlike other artists, Rosales viewed these controversies as a boost to her career, because without controversy, she would never become an artist.
When interviewed, Rosales gave some convincing fact to response the question on why do you think God and the first human should be black. She said that all human life came out of Africa, the Garden of Eden, so it makes sense to paint God as a black woman. Aside from the racism issue, some people also criticized Rosales’ artwork as not original, since she copied Michaelangelo’s artwork and modified it. People think that if making something for the identity and value for black women is so important, then why not just make original art, instead of copying someone else’s original art. Rosales’ response to this criticism was however very humble and she truly gained my respect and I believe some other people’s respect too. She told the media that she was a little naive in underestimating the number of individuals who would not accept such a statement and that everyone has a right to react and express their feelings. Despite the accepting response, Rosales, however, was sad that people are afraid of change and of seeing the world differently. Also, their words and the things they have done were truly destructive.
Michelle, Harmonia Rosales's artwork stood out to me too when I heard her presentation. Michaelangelo reimagined creation story of angeles as black women is very unique and I am glad that she did not care about any negative criticism she would receive. Her statements in regards to her paintings are really well argued and I liked how she makes original art.
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