Mickalene Thomas

Visual artist Mickalene Thomas, 53, shook our tables with her newest exhibit “All About Love,” which celebrates Black womanhood through bold, audacious and vibrant portraits that fuse modern art with historical references. Known for her signature use of rhinestones, acrylic and enamel, her work challenges conventional beauty standards while paying homage to Black femininity and culture. Thomas’ unique visual language, blending pop art with elements of classical portraiture, has made her a leading voice in contemporary art. From her early days transforming iconic images with new narratives to her multimedia installations, Thomas continues to inspire by centering marginalized voices. Without a doubt, she cemented her legacy as an artist whose work speaks to empowerment, identity, and the complexity of representation.