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Picnic

Oil on canvas mounted on cardstock
8 x 10 1/8 inches
Circa 1992
Now on view: TJC Gallery, Spartanburg, South Carolina

Picnic by Ann Tanksley is a vibrant and celebratory portrayal of women from the Gullah Geechee community, a group known for its rich cultural heritage and strong ties to West African traditions. Having embarked on a journey of artistic rediscovery and exploration later in life, Tanksley's work is deeply influenced by her travels and her engagement with the stories and struggles of Black Americans. Drawing inspiration from the themes of perseverance she discovered in the folk tales recorded by Zora Neale Hurston and in the 1991 film Daughters of the Dust, Tanksley invites viewers to appreciate the strength and beauty of the Gullah community, reflecting her broader vision of art as a medium for celebrating Black identity and resilience. Her work stands as a testament to the power of art to inspire, unite, and tell the stories of those whose voices have historically been marginalized.