After Andrew 

Nigel Van Wieck painted this scene, entitled *After Andrew*, sometime in the late 20th century. This work offers us a glimpse into the socio-economic landscape of Florida, perhaps in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992. At first glance, it might seem like a casual scene of leisure, but there is a subtle tension within the composition. Note the division of space and how race and gender intersect in the arrangement of figures. The artist plays with traditional and alternative narratives, presenting an image of both connection and distance. The figures, caught in moments of reflection or conversation, suggest themes of resilience, community, and recovery. Van Wieck captures an emotional snapshot of everyday life, highlighting how social and environmental forces shape individual experiences and collective memory. The painting leaves you with questions about the untold stories and shared humanity within this seemingly ordinary scene.