My mom created this design in the early 1990s.
I saw this painting many times throughout my childhood; the black person’s eye is open and the white person’s eyes remain closed.
I thought, if she painted it today, the white person’s eyes would be open too; bearing witness to the reality our black friends face.
So I asked her: If she painted this design today, would she change it?
She surprised me by saying that she would’ve painted both sets of eyes closed — hopeful that the day that black people can shut their eyes and enjoy a moment of peace and relaxation is on the horizon.
Art may be subjective but — whether you imagine Dixie Foxton’s design with eyes open or closed — I hope that humanity stands together until both interpretations are realized and become commonplace.
Thanks for letting me share your work, Mom.
Amber Green is a self-published Canadian author and freelance writer. Her short stories can be found here: www.amazon.com/author/ambergreen
© 2020 Amber Green
Art © 1990 Dixie Foxton