“Tar Beach #2,” created by Faith Ringgold in 1990, belongs to the Feminist Art and Postcolonial art movements. This cityscape artwork employs vibrant colors and intricate details to convey a powerful narrative.
The artwork portrays a vivid and lively city scene beneath a night sky illuminated with stars. In the foreground, a family is gathered on a rooftop terrace, surrounded by a lush, green garden and a table laden with various dishes. One character reclines comfortably on a blanket, evoking a sense of relaxation and contentment. The mid-ground features the towering silhouettes of urban architecture, showcased in a palette of warm and cool hues. This cityscape is animated by bright, rectangular buildings and an elegantly arching bridge. High above the bustling metropolis, figures soar through the sky, invoking a sense of freedom and possibility. The sky itself is adorned with text, perhaps narrating personal or collective memories, enhancing the depth and storytelling aspect of the artwork.