Art Analysis: Lois Mailou Jones

This painting is "The Ascent of Ethiopia" by Lois Mailou Jones. It shows the Evolution of African-American culture. The bottom of the painting with the figure in a headdress represents living in Africa, and going up you can see the struggle to finally make it to the Harlem Renaissance. I noticed three HR themes in this painting: Identification with race, pride, and exploration of Negro heritage and history.

This painting immediately stood out to me because of the interesting composition and good use of complimentary colors. I think the the symbols like the pyramids and the city building were a creative way for the artist to express her idea.