Renowned artist Nona Faustine passed away on March 20 at the age of 48 in New York City. Known for her powerful self-portraits that shed light on marginalized narratives and confronted violent histories, Faustine’s work delved into themes of legacy, representation, trauma, and identity in relation to racial and gender stereotypes. Her photography was deeply rooted in research, offering critical insights into issues of White violence and settler colonialism while honoring ancestors whose stories had been overlooked.
Critics and art enthusiasts alike praised Faustine for her bravery and audacity in presenting her naked self in her work, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society’s past and present. One of her most acclaimed series, “White Shoes,” featured Faustine posing nude or partially clothed at former slave auction sites across New York, such as the Tweed Courthouse and Wall Street intersection. The series, which was highlighted in a solo exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum last year, sparked conversations about hidden histories and the impact of trauma on communities.
In a 2019 interview with MusĂ©e magazine, Faustine explained her use of nudity as a means of reclaiming the Black body in art and subverting oppressive historical narratives. Raised in Brooklyn by a family of photography enthusiasts, Faustine developed a love for the medium at a young age and later pursued formal education in photography at the School of Visual Arts and the International Center of Photography at Bard College. Her first solo exhibition, “My Country,” held in 2016, challenged the mythologies surrounding national monuments and explored themes of access and ownership.
Throughout her career, Faustine received numerous awards and accolades, including a fellowship with the American Academy in Rome. Her work is now held in prestigious collections such as the David C. Driskell Center, the Studio Museum of Harlem, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Carnegie Museum in Pittsburgh. Faustine’s legacy as an artist who fearlessly tackled difficult subjects and pushed boundaries in the art world will continue to inspire future generations of creators.
As we mourn the loss of Nona Faustine, we honor her contributions to the art world and her unwavering commitment to shedding light on untold stories and challenging societal norms through her powerful photography.
