Elder Helen Odessa Gillis, Greater Mt. Sinai Gospel Tabernacle, Cape Charles, Virginia 1999

This black and white photograph, taken in 1999 by Mary Ellen Mark, depicts Elder Helen Odessa Gillis, a prominent figure in the Greater Mt. Sinai Gospel Tabernacle in Cape Charles, Virginia. Mark's portrait, renowned for capturing the essence of her subjects, highlights Gillis's dignified presence and the intricate details of her attire, showcasing the intersection of faith and personal style within the African American community. The photograph's composition emphasizes Gillis's powerful gaze and the symbolic objects surrounding her, offering a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual richness of a community often overlooked.