Malcom X, Morley, Matisse and Me 1993

Emma Amos made this mixed media work, "Malcom X, Morley, Matisse and Me" in 1993. Here, Amos engages with art history, personal narrative, and political commentary. Looking at the image, we can see that it combines painting with collage and textile elements, challenging traditional art boundaries and institutional practices. The inclusion of Malcolm X signifies a connection to the civil rights movement and the fight for racial equality in the United States. By placing herself alongside figures like Malcolm X, Amos asserts her presence within a broader cultural and political landscape. The references to "Morley" and "Matisse" highlight her engagement with art history, inviting viewers to consider the politics of representation and the exclusion of artists of color from mainstream art narratives. Further research might include exploring the artist's personal papers, exhibition reviews, and critical essays to shed light on the social context in which Amos was working. As such, we can gain a deeper understanding of art's role in challenging existing social norms.