Like Water for Flowers
“Weary”
Portrait of Shefon
Referencing the photography style of Carl Van Vechten, a writer & photographer, known for his participation as a patron of the Harlem Renaissance.
“Weary”, Portrait of Shefon by DeVaughn Jerrell (2023)
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graphite on 22" x 30" arches hot press paper (300lbs, 640gsm)
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double portrait of shefon & her shadow
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soft & hard edges to create depth and life
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use of line and light to create dramatic contrast
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white rose to create contrast within shadow
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close attention to detail within shadows
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finished with a black frame and green suede mat
Named after Solange’s, “Weary”, which asks listeners, specifically black women, to question the state of the world and leave no room for questioning their sense of belonging.
DeVaughn & Shefon shared a conversation about belonging right before the reference photo was taken and inspired the title and mood for the eventual portrait.
