I Want To Be Jerry Pinkney

The watercolor drawing presents a young person suspended in mid-air, seemingly propelled by a large fish rendered in translucent washes of gold and blue. The figure is positioned centrally within the composition, their arms outstretched as if embracing the upward motion. They are dressed in red clothing – a t-shirt beneath grey overalls – accented with an orange scarf draped diagonally across the torso and legs. The footwear consists of white sneakers adorned with patterned socks. A cluster of small, decorative objects appears affixed to the hair, adding a touch of playful detail.
The background is characterized by a soft, ethereal quality achieved through layered washes of blue and white, suggesting either water or an atmospheric haze. Below the figure, a strip of green indicates ground level, providing a sense of perspective but remaining largely undefined. The fish itself appears to be partially transparent, allowing glimpses of the background colors to filter through its form, further enhancing the feeling of lightness and buoyancy.
The drawing’s subtexts revolve around themes of aspiration and liberation. The act of flight, facilitated by an improbable ally – the oversized fish – implies a desire for transcendence or escape from earthly constraints. The figures open posture and upward gaze convey optimism and a sense of reaching towards something beyond their immediate surroundings. The vibrant color palette contributes to the overall feeling of joy and possibility.
The choice of overalls, typically associated with childhood and labor, juxtaposed against the fantastical element of flight, might suggest a yearning for freedom from responsibility or a desire to redefine conventional roles. The decorative elements in the hair introduce an element of individuality and self-expression, hinting at a rejection of conformity. Ultimately, the work seems to explore the complex interplay between youthful ambition, imaginative escape, and the pursuit of personal identity.