Money on the Mind 2017

"Money on the Mind," a 2017 painting by Monica Ikegwu, portrays two young Black individuals. The young woman on the left, dressed in a dark headscarf, holds a smartphone displaying a heart rate monitor, while the young man on the right, dressed in a dark t-shirt, holds cash. The work's title and imagery suggest a commentary on the social and economic realities of contemporary life, particularly for Black Americans. Ikegwu's painting is notable for its realistic style, employing rich colors and meticulous details. The contrasting poses of the figures create a sense of tension and duality, raising questions about wealth, health, and the pursuit of financial stability.