Hiawatha D. Iconic Black Women: Ain't I a Woman -Northwest African American Museum [temporary exhibit]

The exhibition Hiawatha D. Iconic Black Women: Ain’t I a Woman was the artist’s act of creatively honoring the resilience, power and beauty of Black women and Black women history-makers. “Iconic Black Women: Ain’t I a Woman” was a visually immersive experience that highlighted and set a blaze of celebration toward African American women; recognizing little sisters to the larger than life Big Sisters who lead and have led this country in diverse and profound ways. Hiawatha D’s. work embodied a colorful tenacity and simplicity that portrayed a sentiment of legacy and inspiration. From Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Former first lady Michelle Obama accompanied by her daughters Sasha and Malia, Nina Simone, Serena Williams to Lupita N’yongo, all who mirrored and reflect a unique beauty, presence in our history, current society and consciousness. Once captured by Hiawatha D.’s abstract portrait style, they all became portals for all to celebrate Black women and to acknowledge themselves within the fold of their universal presence.

Photo by Michael B. Maine- Hiawatha D. Iconic Black Women: Ain’t I a Woman