The Black Madonna refers to depictions of the Virgin Mary with dark or Black features, which have been historically significant in many different cultures, particularly in Africa, Europe, and the Americas. 

She symbolizes a powerful intersection of spirituality, cultural identity, and resistance, representing Black womanhood as divine, resilient, and sacred. While the specifics vary across cultures, The Black Madonna transcends borders, serving as a symbol of empowerment, protection, and unity for diverse communities worldwide.

The goal of creating artwork focused on The Black Madonna is to celebrate the strength, beauty, and spiritual significance of Black freedom, womanhood, LGBT+ & oppressed communities. By honoring this icon, Raph Draws aims to challenge the erasure of Black representation in religious and cultural symbols while promoting inclusivity, healing, and global solidarity. Their artwork seeks to uplift marginalized communities and engage in conversations about race, gender, and faith, promoting a deeper connection to both history and contemporary culture.

Yes! You are encouraged to share your interpretation of The Black Madonna that speaks to your own unique style. The core concept should have its global significance, but the form and approach can vary widely—from abstract and contemporary representations to more traditional depictions. We welcome various artistic styles, from digital illustration to large-scale murals, as long as the work respects and honors the cultural and spiritual weight of the icon.

Your project should honor the diverse and universal presence of The Black Madonna across different cultures. This might involve researching how the icon appears in various countries, from the Black Madonna of Częstochowa in Poland, to Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre in Cuba, or Erzulie Dantor in Haiti. Consider how these global representations resonate within different historical, social, and spiritual contexts, and explore how your creative project can reflect both shared and unique experiences surrounding The Black Madonna, Time, Space, & Consciousness.

For community mural projects, I work with paint, to ensure creative accessibility for participants of all ages & backgrounds   

For private mural projects, I work with paint and/or vinyl. I use high-quality, durable adhesive vinyl that is specifically designed for large-scale installations. The vinyl is weatherproof, UV-resistant, and designed to last for many years without fading or peeling. This ensures that the artwork retains its vibrancy and integrity in both indoor and outdoor settings.

For digital art, digital painting, illustration, and graphic design are ideal, with the flexibility to incorporate elements of photography or collage if desired. 

The key is that the offered medium aligns with your creative vision and conveys the themes of the proposed project in a powerful way.

For mural projects, I encourage submissions that focus on public spaces where the artwork can have broad visibility and impact—particularly in communities aiming to bring visibility to a social-cultural issue or cause. While the mural can be placed on a variety of surfaces, such as wood or aluminum panels, you will need to secure permission from the building owner or relevant authorities before starting. If your mural or digital artwork project with my creative style & values, I will collaborate with you to finalize the location.

For digital artwork, there are no location restrictions, but we encourage submissions that can be easily shared and ethically displayed, whether online or through exhibitions.

When submitting your project:

• Concept Overview: Provide a detailed explanation of your concept, including the inspiration behind your depiction of The Black Madonna. How does your interpretation fit into the larger cultural and spiritual context?
  
  

• Design Mockups: Include visual references or design mockups to help us understand your artistic direction. This could be sketches, digital designs, or any artwork that represents your concept.
  
  

• Community Impact: Describe how your artwork will impact the community, both during the creative process and after completion. What messages or conversations do you hope to ignite?
  
  

• Budget & Timeline: Provide an estimated budget for materials, labor, and any other resources you may need. Outline a timeline for completing the artwork, including any community engagement activities.
  

Here are some logistical aspects of creating a mural:

• Wall Size & Accessibility: Ensure the wall you plan to paint on is accessible and large enough for your design. If the location is publicly owned, make sure you have the necessary permissions before proceeding.
  
  

• Materials: You will need to secure all necessary materials (e.g., paints, brushes, scaffolding, etc.). If needed, we can assist in connecting you to suppliers or sponsors who may provide discounts or donations.
  
  

• Timeline: Mural projects typically take 1-3 weeks, depending on the size and complexity. This timeline includes preparation, painting, and final touch-ups.
  
  

• Community Engagement: Consider involving local community members in the mural creation process. This could include hosting workshops or painting events, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the artwork.

Once your mural or digital artwork is completed, I will promote it across various platforms:

• Website & Social Media: The artwork will be featured on my website and across social media channels, showcasing the creative process and final piece.
  
  

• Exhibitions & Events: If applicable, I will organize local exhibitions or events to further engage the community and allow others to experience the artwork in person.
  
  

• Press & Outreach: I will also reach out to local media outlets and cultural organizations to share your work with a broader audience.

It’s essential to approach The Black Madonna with cultural sensitivity, understanding, and respect. Researching the cultural, historical, and spiritual context of the icon will guide your work. Additionally, if you’re unsure about any aspect of your project, I encourage you to consult with cultural leaders, community members, or experts who can offer feedback and help ensure that your representation is respectful and accurate.

To stay informed about upcoming projects, new submission opportunities, and exhibitions, sign up for my newsletter and follow me on social media, such as Instagram.