George Floyd "Air Is The Most Precious Gift We Share" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XX6GiajiGFo&t=2s

September 2016 #MarcLamontHill Delivers a powerful speech at Audobon Park, Jersey City. Poem "Let Freedom Ring" By, Lorenzo Pickett Artist:

Song: Chris Turner: Sing his amazing song "Angels Watching Over Me" April 19, 2018, Newark, NJ

I remember when I witnessed the video for the very first time I broke down in tears in utter shock  and disbelief. I could not sleep the following 2 days in the midst of this emotional roller coster I was on so I painted. The message “Air is the most precious gift we can share” is a message from God that was placed on my heart to convey in that painting. It still blows my mind what he was subjected to!! Be sure to tune in, I will be reflecting on this piece  #12NewsNJ  #ThespotJC

“It's an artist's duty to reflect the times in which we live” ~Nina Simone

George Floyd One Year Later News12 -Artist Lorenzo Pickett

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUkTUurLecU&list=PLVXXfEqovM9rcGSuTIbMrEPcq_aqrSnuU&index=4

I want give a big thanks to Beth Borror, Olga Lavine, John Bathke and ThespotJC for facilitating this! 

Giving all Glory to God!! #SocialJustic

Composition and Structure

Central Focus: The composition places George Floyd’s face prominently in the center, immediately drawing the viewer’s attention. The close-up perspective emphasizes the emotional impact and creates an intimate connection with the subject.

Balance and Layout: The text on the right side of the painting balances the composition, providing a narrative element that complements the visual. The halo-like circle behind Floyd’s head adds a sense of importance and reverence.

Color and Texture

Palette: The predominant use of red, with accents of yellow and white, creates a bold and intense color scheme. Red often symbolizes strong emotions such as anger, love, and urgency, which aligns with the themes surrounding George Floyd's tragic death and the subsequent outcry for justice.

Texture: The textured brushstrokes and layering of paint add a raw and expressive quality to the piece. This texture enhances the emotional depth, making the painting feel immediate and visceral.

Symbolism and Imagery

Text and Message: The inclusion of the text “Air is the most precious gift we share” directly references the circumstances of Floyd's death and his final words. This adds a poignant and powerful message to the artwork, underscoring the themes of shared humanity and the fight for justice. Halo and Colors: The halo behind Floyd’s head, combined with the fiery colors, elevates him to a martyr-like status, symbolizing both his suffering and the larger movement for racial justice that his death ignited.

Overall Impact

Emotional Resonance: The painting is highly emotive, capturing the viewer’s attention with its bold colors and intense expression. The combination of visual and textual elements creates a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with contemporary social issues. Artistic Style: Pickett’s style in this painting is expressive and bold, characterized by strong lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic brushwork. This approach effectively conveys the urgency and emotional weight of the subject matter.

Areas for Further Exploration

Detail and Definition: While the expressive style is impactful, incorporating more detailed elements, especially in the facial features, could add further depth and realism to the portrait. This could enhance the connection between the viewer and the subject.

Background Integration: The background, while effective in its current form, could be explored further to incorporate more symbolic or narrative elements that relate to Floyd’s life and the broader social context.In conclusion, this painting of George Floyd by Lorenzo Pickett is a powerful and evocative piece that captures the emotional intensity and significance of its subject. The use of bold colors, expressive brushwork, and poignant text creates a compelling narrative that speaks to the ongoing struggle for racial justice and human dignity.