In the African American experience, jubilation is more than just a feeling—it is an expression of resilience, triumph, and collective memory. Historically, moments of jubilation have marked monumental milestones, from the first Emancipation Day celebrations to the jubilant marches of the Civil Rights Movement. I wanted this painting to embody that spirit, echoing the joyous gatherings of freed communities dancing in the streets, their laughter and music defying centuries of oppression. The subject’s carefree movement reflects the unshackling of burdens, the ability to rejoice in one’s own existence, and the right to embrace happiness without restraint. Her joy is both personal and communal, an exultation that reverberates through generations.
Like the resilience that has carried African Americans through adversity, I wanted this artwork to radiate a sense of uncontainable joy, a reminder that celebration itself is an act of defiance and strength. In a world that has often sought to suppress Black joy, Jubilation stands as a testament to the beauty of freedom—whether it be freedom of movement, of spirit, or of historical vindication. It is a visual symphony of hope, a tribute to those who have fought for joy to be possible, and a call to embrace the light of triumph wherever it shines.