Vanessa L. German
Souvenir of Our Trip

• What details do you see when you look at these artworks? What found objects can you identify?
• What is this story being told by this "power figure"?

Vanessa German’s “power figures” feature a plethora of found objects purposefully attached to black dolls. While each sculpture exists as a single work, they are composed of a wide array of materials that each impart their own story—all combining to create a sculpture imbued with beauty and magic. Mixing complex historical references with playful elements, German creates an opportunity for viewers to explore and discover what she refers to as “an adventure in sight.”

• How do the enduring struggles for progress throughout Black history connect to other social movements, historically and today?
• What do you think the artist is trying to tell us about the historical roles of Black women in American society? How do you feel about that history?
• What identities influence your experiences and opinions, and how might they differ from your peers? How does recognizing this intersection of identities influence your perception of why and how diversity matters in politics and policymaking?