Jean Toomer 1925

Curator: Here we have Winold Reiss's 1925 portrait of Jean Toomer, rendered in pencil. Editor: My first thought is somber elegance. The subject’s downcast gaze and muted tones project a feeling of introspection, but his attire suggests sophistication. Curator: Reiss was deeply interested in portraying the New Negro identity, exploring themes of racial identity through his work, and it seems this work can be included. Given Toomer's complex relationship with his own racial identity, what symbolism do you discern in the visual language employed here? Editor: The lighting certainly adds to the mystique. Notice how the light source seems to highlight Toomer’s brow and cheekbones, almost sculpting his face. This intense illumination could symbolize a kind of self-scrutiny, that inner turmoil around identity. And that shadow looming behind him is definitely suggestive. Curator: That shadowy area could represent external forces perhaps. His skin tones also present some curious information that might show the complex issues of the melting pot idea and race definitions. The lines on his jacket show depth and the weight of the piece, not only due to color and subject but the act of representation of his clothing also serves to portray some social commentary. What do you see in that aspect? Editor: Absolutely. This portrait also evokes ideas that were simmering at that time, of transformation, and the search for meaning. I do notice, the simplification of forms creates a stark image. He seems burdened. I think Reiss captured the profound questioning inherent in Toomer's search for identity. Curator: Reiss uses a very clear line to shape the image, in combination with some lighter gradations in shading around Toomer’s features which almost provides a three-dimensionality to the final presentation. Considering that Toomer avoided identifying solely as Black, perhaps this artistic rendering echoes the complexities of navigating racial labels. The art embodies that struggle for identity and how we create new images for that internal construction of character. Editor: A nuanced piece indeed. Reiss clearly didn't create just a likeness, he was reflecting a multifaceted soul. Curator: Indeed, and with the artful balance between simplicity of material and profundity of subject. Editor: A compelling combination.