Toast offers a tightly cropped view of three figures, two of whom pour champagne into fluted glasses while a humbly dressed companion eats cake made up of layers in the Pan-African colors of red, green, and black. Juxtaposed against the tuxedoed character, the latter character represents someone who is finally able to find freedom and representation in art. In creating this work, Holmes reflects on the complex emotions that derive from the success that he achieved from his practice—described by the artist as "survivor's guilt," as he questions why he was "chosen" while so many others in his community are routinely left behind. Regarding his general practice, the artist notes, "My work is about bringing everyday people—especially those from my culture—into the future. I want my paintings to reflect what life really looks like now so that, in the future, people can see who we were. I'm not just painting portraits; I'm painting emotion, humanity, and presence. Much of my work isn't meant to be seen, so much as felt." For this limited edition series, each print features gold leaf elements that add dimension and richness.
Jammie Holmes
Toast, 2025
19 ¾ x 32 inches
Archival pigment print
Embellished with gold leaf
Limited edition of 35 with 5 AP + 1 PP
Signed and numbered by the artist
$1,000
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