This is an original art piece, handmade by the artist for the USTA’s Black Lives To The Front Original Art Exhibit at the 2020 US Open. This piece was displayed in the front row seats of Arthur Ashe Stadium at the 2020 US Open.
“This piece shows an African American woman blending in with her surroundings while simultaneously finding herself. She has confidence and focus in her expression as if her intended goal has already been achieved. Many of the media outlets depict African Americans as anything other than beautiful. Or even worse, beauty in spite of being black. For too long, African Americans have had to conform to beauty standards. Hair isn’t straight enough, too dark of a complexion, 'not enough this and too much of that. Ultimately losing identity every time one wants to venture into society. I want Black People to love themselves. Love your nappy hair, dark skin, broad shoulders and thick thighs. Let the world see you for you and be unapologetic about the pride in each step.”…Vincent Ballentine
The USTA Foundation Incorporated is donating 50% of the net proceeds from the auctioning of this item to CAMBA, in honor of the artist.
Bid now on this original piece of artwork and own a piece of Black Lives to the Front history from the 2020 US Open!
Artist: Vincent Ballentine
Title: Wind At Her Back
Year created: 2020
Medium: Acrylic paint on canvas
Height (unframed, inches): 25
Width (unframed, inches): 17
Depth (unframed, inches): 3/16
This piece is signed by the artist.
Signed Area: front
Description of piece:
This piece will be in an acrylic shadow box with a 3 inch margin on each side and the dimensions framed are: height: 28 inches; width: 20 inches; depth: 2 inches). Background material that the art will be mounted to is a 9.3 oz linen canvas.
Artist bio:
Vincent Ballentine is a multi-disciplined visual artist based in Brooklyn, NY. Thriving through personal and artistic growth, Vincent aims to contribute his brand of style and vision to the art community through mentorship and youth guidance.