Joshua Branch-Howell

"We the People Who Are Dark and Blue" is a triptych inspired by Curtis Mayfield's song of the same name. Using screen printing ink and linocut on canvas, I explore black identity through three different shades of blue. Each panel features a repeated linocut portrait of a young black boy with layers of handprints creating texture and movement throughout the composition. The center panel is grounded in black gesso, creating a strong contrast that allows the blue figures to emerge from darkness.

The work reflects on the diversity of black experiences and the many shades of identity that exist within the African diaspora. By using blue as a primary color throughout the series, I reference Mayfield's message of unity and resilience to invite viewers to consider blackness as something complex and deeply interconnected.

WE THE PEOPLE WHO ARE DARK AND BLUE, 2026

1,2&3

22 x 28 in

Screen Print & Linocut