Own a high quality fine art print of Jessica Bell's cut steel piece, "Tree of Life."   Created for the Who Are Our Neighbors? National Endowment of the Arts "Our Town" grant winner art exhibition.
 
This artwork is a tribute to the strength, resilience, and beauty of the African Diaspora.  The original piece was crafted from a steel panel featuring a CNC plasma-cut Tree of Life, a symbolic family tree that speaks to our shared roots and the enduring power of ancestral legacy.  Each leaf on the tree is a hand-drawn Cowrie shell, no two the same, representing the individuality and vibrancy of the cultures within the Diaspora. The Cowrie shell, once used as currency, honors African traditions and spirituality.
 
The piece was also created with 12 custom square magnets, which you see here adorning some of the cowrie leaves.  Each magnet bears a symbol as follows: Epa (symbol of law and justice), Fatanto (tenderness, gentleness, honesty, fragility), Tabono (strength, confidence, and persistance), Dwennimmen (strength), Nea Onnim (knowledge), Obohemaa (preciousness gem of treasure), Wo Nsa Da Mu A (symbol of democracy), Nyame Nti (faith and trust in God), Nteasee (understanding and cooperation), Odo Nnyew Fie Kwan (love does not lose its way home), Wawa Aba (hardiness, toughness, perseverance), Sankofa (learning from the past to create a better future.).
 
This work honors Vicki Meek, a true bridge-builder, whose lifelong commitment to community and culture has inspired generations. This piece, rooted in our conversations, answers the question “Who Are Our Neighbors?" with: “We are those who carry and share the wisdom of our ancestors.”
 
This purchase is for a high quality fine art print with matte finish, available in three sizes.  Each is printed with a 1" white border all around.  Frame not included.