Artworks

Panthera, 2002

  • Artist

    Mickalene Thomas

  • Title

    Panthera

  • Date

    2002

  • Medium

    Rhinestones on acrylic on birch panel

  • Dimensions

    48 × 72 in. (121.9 × 182.9 cm)

  • Credit line

    The Studio Museum in Harlem; Museum purchase with funds provided by the Acquisition Committee

  • Object Number

    2003.10.9

The rhinestones in Panthera create a shimmering effect, but a deeper meaning underlies the painting’s attractive surface. An artist who explores complex notions of gender, sexuality, and representation across media, Mickalene Thomas has described the panther as a symbol of Black female representation. Here, Thomas gives visual prominence to the physical prowess of the cat, demonstrating that beauty can accompany strength.


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Artworks

Panthera, 2002

  • Artist

    Mickalene Thomas

  • Title

    Panthera

  • Date

    2002

  • Medium

    Rhinestones on acrylic on birch panel

  • Dimensions

    48 × 72 in. (121.9 × 182.9 cm)

  • Credit line

    The Studio Museum in Harlem; Museum purchase with funds provided by the Acquisition Committee

  • Object Number

    2003.10.9

The rhinestones in Panthera create a shimmering effect, but a deeper meaning underlies the painting’s attractive surface. An artist who explores complex notions of gender, sexuality, and representation across media, Mickalene Thomas has described the panther as a symbol of Black female representation. Here, Thomas gives visual prominence to the physical prowess of the cat, demonstrating that beauty can accompany strength.


Explore further