5 powerful mosaic designs influenced by Black history
It’s been 44 years since February was officially declared as Black History Month in the United States. Black people from all walks of life have helped shape communities across the country for more than four centuries. Black History Month is very much about honoring the valuable contributions Black people have made and continue to make-in societies across the world. It’s about celebrating the determination to work towards a more inclusive society, where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
As the nations mark this milestone, we at Mosaics Lab have specially curated a collection of five beautiful designs, each one powerful and influenced by Black history and culture.
Breaking barriers
American pop star Michael Jackson broke barriers for African Americans in the music industry. He was the first Black artist to a video broadcast on MTV. His radical album, Thriller, broke sales records around the world. Add a dose of Black pop culture and dynamism to your home with this portrait by innovative artist Andy Warhol.
Black and regal
There is something majestic about the Black and regal woman portrayed in this mosaic artwork. Gold accentuates her braided hair, lidded eyes, and parted lips, not to mention the gilded hoops she wears. The gilded tiles are a striking and sharp contrast to her dusky skin and the obsidian-toned background. Is she a model? A pop star? A beautiful lady walking down the street? Who knows.
Out of Africa
For this tabletop mosaic art, American artist Eileen McDonough seeks inspiration from the street mosaics of her newfound home in Lisbon, Portugal. Chloe, the woman depicted in this mosaic art, is fashionably dressed in a vibrant, multi-hued headscarf and dress that could be influenced by African cultures. Chloe looks like a confident female who is unabashed and unafraid of what other people think.
Elegant and ebony
This mosaic artwork of a Black woman adorned with black beads is mesmerizing to watch. Touches of yellow frame her downcast gaze and balance her brightly colored dress. The woman’s blue headscarf alludes to her expression. Why does the girl appear sad and worried as she clutches her beads? What is she thinking about?
Icons and iconoclasts
Last, but certainly not the least, on our list, is this mosaic art of Black historical figure Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The American pastor, civil rights activist, and Nobel Peace Prize winner was more than a symbolic figure of American blacks. He never backed down in his stand against racism. Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, in particular, is among the most revered orations in the English language.
