frfr?
I had hoped that if I were in true dialogue with this ancestor Elder Leroy Almon then he would humor me and peer into frfr?
I hope he’d giggle and murmur and I’d explain and we’d get to a place of “I know, right?”
Leroy Almon was a craftsman of woodwork so I chose paper. Paper is also becoming a relic in my time as a mother of children onlining and I also chose it because it is basic and accessible and because these works remind me that it shouldn’t need to take the most in order for someone to have expression and flow.
Elder Leroy Almon said that “everything [he does] comes from the spirit; it’s spiritually motivated.”
I completely agree and I appreciate how when hearing this come through it gave me a giggle and also relieves that part of me. Any expression of spirit and art can be a great way for you to feel the love and all the therapy therein.
Although I appreciate this piece it is not meant to go on its own because if I were in the presence of this ancestor or frankly any of these artists, then I’d absolutely want to share a moment of singing for them the Black National Anthem to bring us joy, unity, and gratitude. A balm for those in that need.

I am also moved to share a final piece inspired by Arthur Dial’s Eve and Adam and inspired by many of the serious Christ faith based artworks in this collection. I think my choosing to view the gallery the “wrong way around” ended up offering healing and air.
This piece is a song I learned from listening to Nina Simone (Eunice Waymon) recordings. It’s called “Forbidden Fruit” and when I say go on and eat you should shout “FORBIDDEN FRUIT.”
And I’ll say, “It’s mighty sweet.”
And again you’ll say “FORBIDDEN FRUIT.”
Me: it’s quite a treat
You: FORBIDDEN FRUIT
My line (x2)
Together: FORBIDDEN FRUIT!

I’ve got my friend Professor David Crittenden on the guitar.

Jayanthi Rajasa
Frfr? c. 2021
12” x 16”
Pencil & paper on canvas