Notes of a Native Son

14x18 mixed media painting. 18x22 with frame (included).

James Baldwin was at once a perpetual optimist and an unflinching critic when it came to American culture. Diminutive in size and stature, Baldwin was a giant in every way. He was a man before his times. His critiques of American culture and white supremacy in particular still hold up to this very moment. Baldwin’s intellect was unmatched but, more than that, he had a big and open heart for this experiment we call American democracy. What makes his achievements all the more impressive was the fact that he was openly gay in a time where hostilities ran deep for the LGBTQ+ communities across racial lines. Danger was always at his doorstep and yet Baldwin rarely, if ever, pulled punches when it came to confronting racism. His sexual orientation made him an easy target and was often used within black spaces to discounts his insights. It is difficult to wrap my mind around the level of courage this man possessed. He was a true American hero.