Left of Center Art Gallery 

is pleased to present:

The Veil

Artwork by Q’Shaundra James

Jan. 15 – April 5, 2025

Reception: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025 Noon – 3 p.m.

Q’Shaundra James’ work revolves around the philosophy of W.E.B. Dubois: The Veil. It refers to African-Americans’ inability to clearly see themselves outside of white America’s prescribed narrative. By draping over their faces, this semi-transparent fabric obscures black folks’ vision and image. Rather than distort my sitter’s sight with the veil, I grant them clarity: double consciousness. Pulling back the fabric from their eyes, my figures discover they are on display. Unfortunately, the history of slavery and the predominantly European fine art canon forever ties the black image to the past. Black portraiture is commonly associated with abjection, struggle, and otherness. Aware of this notion, the sitters resent the uneasiness of marginalization. To their dismay, portraits find the original forms they imitate are also objectified.  Similar to the confines of a canvas, African-American’s must contend with negative stereotypes and stigmas. Instead of conforming, the figures of my portraits find agency through defiant attitudes. My sitters’ rebelliously refuse to acknowledge their audience or glare back indifferently. In addition, each sitter is bestowed an object utilized to debunk misconceptions towards the black community. Despite the models’ efforts, the veil will always loom in the background.