Deaunte 

Alfred Conteh created this portrait, Deaunte. Conteh’s work often explores themes of identity, race, and the Black experience in America. Born in 1975, his art emerges from a contemporary context marked by ongoing dialogues around social justice and representation. Conteh builds up a complex and sensitive portrayal of the young man; we might consider the historical weight of portraiture and how it has often been used to reinforce social hierarchies, typically excluding people of color. Here Conteh is using the genre to center a Black subject, imbuing him with dignity and presence. The background is a riot of gold and blue, bringing the piece into the present. Consider what it means to see Deaunte gazing into the future, rendered with such care and attention. Conteh's art provides a space for contemplation on individual stories and the broader narratives that shape our understanding of identity and belonging.