Rise? - Maya Angelou
About "Rise?"
"Rise?" pays tribute to Maya Angelou, honoring her resilience, wisdom, and unyielding spirit. Through intricate artistry, the piece reveals layers of Angelou's extraordinary journey, inviting viewers to uncover hidden echoes of her transformative words and lasting legacy.
More than a portrait, "Rise?" is a celebration of a woman whose voice empowered generations and whose influence transcended time. This inspiring work stands as a testament to Angelou’s unbreakable spirit and her indelible mark on history.
Champion's Moment + Legacy
This artwork captures the iconic image of Muhammad Ali celebrating his victory as heavyweight champion of the world after defeating Sonny Liston in 1964.
To honor Ali’s famous words, “Fly like a butterfly, sting like a bee,” I’ve included nine butterflies and bees within the piece, symbolizing his nine children. This tribute intertwines Ali’s legendary triumph and his unforgettable words with a nod to the legacy he built through family.
3 Key Locations - Louisville, KY
This artwork highlights three significant places in Muhammad Ali's life. The first is Louisville, KY, where he was born on January 17, 1942. This city marked the beginning of his journey from Cassius Clay to the global icon known as Muhammad Ali. Each location in this piece represents a pivotal chapter in his extraordinary life and legacy.
3 Key Locations - Africa
The second location is Africa, where Ali made his first visit in 1964 after winning the heavyweight title. This trip was transformative, as he connected deeply with the continent, embracing his African heritage and finding inspiration from the people he met. Each location in this piece represents a pivotal chapter in his extraordinary life and legacy.
3 Key Locations - Arizona
The third is Scottsdale, Arizona, where Ali spent his final years and was laid to rest in 2016. This resting place honors his legacy and enduring impact on the world. Each location in this piece represents a pivotal chapter in his remarkable life and legacy.
Three Championship Triumphs
In this artwork, three yellow-highlighted trees represent Muhammad Ali’s three heavyweight championship victories. These historic wins occurred in 1964, 1974, and 1978, marking milestones in his illustrious career and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time. Each tree stands as a tribute to Ali’s resilience, skill, and enduring impact on the sport.
The Season of Sacrifice
In this artwork, four barren trees represent the years Muhammad Ali was forced to sit out of professional boxing—from 1967 to 1970—due to his stand against the Vietnam War. Stripped of his title and boxing license, Ali sacrificed years of his prime to stand by his principles, becoming a symbol of resistance and conviction. These trees honor that period of sacrifice, underscoring the depth of his commitment to justice beyond the ring.
A Tribute to the original GOAT
This piece captures the life, legacy, and unwavering spirit of Muhammad Ali. From his beginnings in Louisville, KY, to his transformative journey to Africa, and his final resting place in Arizona, each element honors a key moment in his remarkable story. Symbolic details, like the highlighted trees for his heavyweight victories and the barren trees representing his years of sacrifice for principle, invite viewers to explore the layers of a man who was much more than a boxer. Ali’s legacy as a champion, a trailblazer, and a man of conviction continues to inspire, reminding us all of the power of resilience, courage, and staying true to oneself.