X-Ray Robinson
An
African Classic

What is an African classic?
* What is an African classic?

WHAT IS AN AFRICAN CLASSIC?
A person of African descent and choosing to behave according to the highest class or rank with regard to all things African.

[illegible] or obvious residual of the African race serving the planet as an outstanding representative, model, well-known and typical way of being African. One who demonstrates lasting significance and recognized value of all things relating to Africa, its people, languages, culture and practices, in accordance with ancient established principles and methods in a specific process, conscious and aware.

Someone who is typical and traditional in their poise, knowledge of their people's relationship with the Creator and His purpose renders one, me,

I am, an African Classic.

[photographs of museum exhibits]

Sargent Johnson, Mask
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
This copper mask, made in 1933, reveals Sargent Johnson's effort to suggest but not copy forms from Africa. He interpreted the artistic traditions of Africa in contemporary African American art.

Xenobia Bailey, Royal Crown #5
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York
Xenobia Bailey created this hat in 1985 from acrylic, yarn, and other materials. She was inspired by the Yoruba idea that the head is the center of thought and moral strength.

John Biggers, Jubilee - Ghana Harvest Festival
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
A painter, sculptor, and printmaker, John Biggers painted murals in the middle of this century. His work shows aspects of African and African American life.

Augusta Savage, Gamin
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York
Augusta Savage sculpted this piece in 1930, using plaster as her medium. She was the first African American in the National Association of Women Painters and Sculptors.

Faith Ringgold, Bitternest Part II:
Harem Renaissance Party
Bernice Steinbaum Gallery, New York
This 1988 mixed media piece made of cloth and acrylic represents Faith Ringgold's campaign for equality in every aspect of life for women and African Americans.