Jake 

Alfred Conteh created 'Jake' using mixed media on wood panel. Conteh's work is deeply embedded in his experience of being a Black man in America, and his art is a powerful commentary on identity, community, and history. This portrait challenges the traditional representations of Black men, offering a nuanced perspective that acknowledges both the weight of societal expectations and the resilience of the individual spirit. The cracking effect of the wood panel adds a layer of complexity, perhaps symbolizing the fractures within society or the challenges faced by his subjects. Conteh has said "My works are characterizations of people within my community", which are rooted in observations that reflect the everyday lives and struggles, but also the strength and dignity, of the people around him. 'Jake' invites you to consider the emotional and personal dimensions of the Black experience, and how the weight of history shapes individual identity.