Sarah Neptune, known as Sarah Molasses c. 1886

Editor: Anna Eliza Hardy's "Sarah Neptune, known as Sarah Molasses" is quite striking. I’m immediately drawn to the details of her attire and the materials used. What can you tell me about this portrait? Curator: Let's consider the context of production. How does the artist's position as a white woman influence the representation of Sarah Neptune? What materials did Sarah use to create her traditional garments and regalia? Editor: I hadn't thought about the artist’s perspective that way. It makes me think about whose story is actually being told. Curator: Exactly! By focusing on the tangible aspects – the cloth, beads, silver, and the labor involved – we start to unpack the complex relationship between artist, subject, and consumer culture. Editor: That is a really helpful way to think about this portrait. Thanks!