Sankofa II

Created by

Phillips, James, American, born 1945

Subject of

AfriCOBRA, founded 1968

Medium

acrylic paint on canvas

Dimensions

H x W: 90 × 60 in. (228.6 × 152.4 cm)

Diameter (Rolled): 29 1/8 in. (74 cm)

Type

acrylic paintings

Date

1997-1998

Description

An acrylic painting on canvas incorporating Adinkra symbols in colorful swirls and patterns. The primary colors incorporated in the design are base colors of tan, peach and sky blue, with symbols in maroon, green, light blue, yellow, white, orange and purple. Throughout the canvas, preparatory drawing lines and shapes are visible, possibly in charcoal or graphite. The painting is unstretched, with sleeves on both ends through which a dowel can be placed. The patterns and motifs used throughout the painting reflect the AfriCOBRA style or tradition. The canvas is signed by the artist at the lower left corner.

Topic

African American

Africa

Art

Credit Line

Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Object number

2014.321

Restrictions & Rights

© James Phillips. Permission required for use.

See more items in

National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection

Classification

Visual Arts

Exhibition

Visual Art and the American Experience

On View

NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 052

Data Source

National Museum of African American History and Culture