Semi-recently in my African Art History class, we've been discussing body adornment in various cultural groups across Africa and how it relates to identity.

I particularly was intrigued by the Dinka's beaded corsets- not sure I did it justice here, but it just came to mind.

While Ade is not of the Dinka ethnic group (I'm not sure what group he's from, honestly.. though I know he's mulatto). But identity is one of his central conflicts/focuses/representations.

As far as his own identity- he was/is (depending on the time) unaware of his father for a very long period of time. It was assumed that his father was dead- and such was correct. His mother's status as a goddess thus influenced his place in society- but it would be an understatement to say he was an outcast. Unable to interact with his mother or family due to circumstances involving his step father, his own identity was something he was unable to relate with or firmly create. There are several parts to this image- even though it's a sketch- that relate to this, but I'll let the viewer piece it together :)

I've been asked to explain more about the origins of these fellows, so I will try to do so over time.

Sketched on a 3 x 5" notecard; colors applied in photoshop. Drawn during class. Oops.