The reading room is a painting that conveys two lovers settling in their reading room with cups of tea. The couple has a ritual in which they lay out blankets and cushions on the floor of their reading room and spend shared time, reading through their shared collection of books. Their books are a careful selection of works by Black, African and diasporic authors, that contain themes about freedom, Black-queer romance, self-love, survivorship and healing. Some of the visible titles in the painting include The Other Side of Paradise Staceyann Chin, Vagabonds by Eloghosa Osunde, Sula by Toni Morrison, Bliss by Fiona Zedde, The Salt Eaters by Toni Cade Bambara, Changes: a love story by Ama Ata Aidoo, I know why the caged bird sings by Maya Angelou, Photographs: lovers in Motion by Ntozake Shange, The Red Letter Plays by Suzan-Lori Parks, House of Agnes by Fiona Zedde. The book open in the lap of the seated figure is Warsan’s latest offering, Bless the Daughter Raised by a Voice in Her Head. Each of the titles painted into the piece are books that I have read which have had a pivotal impact on me as a person and artist. Each book made me feel more possible, and made my experiences feel less isolated and alienating. The figures featured in the painting are two gender-expansive Black, queer people who exist in a world that renders them invisible at best and vulgar at worst. They are dressed in clothing – and sharing tea mugs – which features the likeness of koi fish. Significant because in Japan koi fish symbolize strength, courage, patience, and success through perseverance. This piece was created using Microsoft Paint 3D, an app I favour because of its accessibility and the very specific texture of the software’s oil paint brush.
