Self-Portrait 

Tomás Joseph Harris created this self-portrait, and in it, he navigates the turbulent waters of identity. Harris, born in 1908, lived through an era marked by shifting cultural and political landscapes, including both World Wars and the rise of modernism. The portrait is a deeply personal exploration, set against a stark black background. Harris uses an unusual color palette to create an unsettling effect. The face seems to be divided, both physically and metaphorically. His expression carries a weight, a sense of introspection. This resonates with the experience of many artists of his time, who struggled to reconcile personal identity with broader societal expectations. Harris here, doesn't maintain traditional representations. It feels like a dialogue on race, gender and class that moves beyond conventional portraiture. The emotional depth of the piece lies in its vulnerability, reflecting the complexities of the human condition.