"Mama Suma" reimagines Queen Mother Suma Diarra as a Black Masking Indian (Queen/Medicine Woman). Collins used light shades of blues and whites, illuminating the wisdom the celebrated spiritual healer imparted. His intricate line work accompanies oil brushstrokes on the canvas, creating a piece measuring the gravitas of Mama Suma.
The artwork addresses the theme in two ways. First, through the under-told story of a larger-than-life figure who journeyed the world, from Africa to the Caribbean, weaved all of her experiences with New Orleans culture, and built a powerful story of the African diaspora. Secondly, the artwork meshes themes of spirituality with the Black Masking Indian tradition. Imagining Mama Suma with this lens demonstrates Collins' commitment to a more vital New Orleans in all its glory.
