Vanessa A.I.D.S Memorial michaelm artist / philosopher© ’88
A graphite & airbrushed acrylic, on ((2) 30" x 40" on cold pressed acid free illustration boards, & digital photography

Vanessa's portrait was created in response to loosing her to A.I.D.S. I paid homage to a friend in a 3D Stereo / Subliminal portrait. I am so proud to have known her. Technically she was born a hermaphrodite. Although the male appendage was merely skin, and all her female parts were intact and working. She was raised in the south and told me of her father and his allegiance to racism. A tale of oppression and murder and her eventual escape from the shackles of ignorance.

Her greatest joy came from sneaking away from home to experience the local southern black Baptist services. She "Oh so loved to listen and watch" the choir sing and dance along with the rest of the congregation. At the time of her passing, she was wearing a set of stereo phones, listening to authentic gospel music.

Later that year, I was asked to honor Elizabeth Taylor in a benefit "From The Heart Foundation", for her compassionate role in education of said illness.