Juneteenth

Michelle’s latest artwork “Self Identity Through Play” to be displayed in the US Embassy in Qatar, Doha

Self Identity Through Play

“The importance of learning through play has been documented by many scholars for decades. The importance for children to identify themselves and others whilst playing is vital for self-confidence and self-esteem, and a pivotal step towards building relationships. It is important that our young Black girls see themselves in positions of higher education, power, influence and responsibility. Dolls of colour are essential for children yet it is essential for our young black girls to remember the key role they play in society”

Michelle Angela Jenkins

Juneteenth

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. 

Happy Juneteenth

The piece produced by Michelle to celebrate Juneteenth, ‘Self Identity through Play’ provides several illustrations of how far Black people have come today. In particular, through the simplicity of the production of toys for today’s children to play with, a fuller and much wider representation of real society has become more of the norm for parents and the kids of today.

More specifically, the background highlights the Pan-American flag, and the chains depict the historical chains once worn by Black slaves. Today, it is important and joyous for children to be able to see, imagine and identify themselves in free and empowered key roles in today’s society.

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