OG LADY LIBERTY

“Freedom Figure with Lantern” by WanJean – A Curatorial & Historical Overview

"Freedom Figure with Lantern" by WanJean is a commanding 6-foot-tall sculptural painting that reframes the American ideal of liberty through the lens of Black womanhood. Merging sculpture, clay, gold leaf, and traditional painting on canvas, WanJean’s work boldly reclaims the iconography of Lady Liberty—transforming her from the neoclassical symbol of European enlightenment into a regal, resilient Black woman bearing both a lantern and a golden chain.

This piece is not only a personal vision—it is a historical intervention. It's important to remember that the original Statue of Liberty, gifted by France in 1886, was conceived in the shadow of emancipation. French abolitionists initially imagined Lady Liberty as a symbol celebrating the end of slavery in the United States. Early designs even featured broken chains in her hands. But by the time it was erected in New York Harbor, the chains were relegated to her feet and obscured from view—hidden beneath her robe and largely erased from the public's imagination.

WanJean resurrects that forgotten history with intentional clarity.

Here, the broken chain is not hidden—it is proudly raised and visually central. Draped over the figure’s wrist and cascading to the floor, the gold chain becomes an unapologetic symbol of generational bondage and a powerful gesture of liberation. The lantern she holds aloft recalls Harriet Tubman, a beacon of light and guidance for those fleeing slavery. Together, these elements reclaim the narrative from erasure and reposition it as a celebration of Black resilience, femininity, and truth-telling.

The solid black background functions not as void but as a sacred stage. It pulls focus entirely onto the figure, offering her dignity, silence, and space—a gallery unto herself. The minimalism of the backdrop makes room for contemplation, ensuring the viewer does not overlook her presence or the centuries of struggle she embodies.

WanJean’s decision to sculpt directly onto the canvas pushes the boundaries of two-dimensional storytelling, creating a hybrid form that bridges painting and sculpture. Her 40-year practice is rooted in works that transcend flatness and evoke cultural memory through touch, texture, and tactile symbolism. As the founder of The Concrete Rose Project (theconcreteroseproject.org) and through her professional studio WJ Art LLC (wanjean.com), WanJean has consistently used her art to elevate underrepresented voices and shape public space through beauty and truth.

This piece is more than a reimagining—it’s a reclamation.

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With Deep Gratitude to Herb Hudson and Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Herb Hudson, founder of the legendary Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles, for his generous collaboration and trust in The Concrete Rose Project.

The unveiling of the Anaheim mural stands as more than just a celebration of art—it’s a testament to Roscoe’s cultural legacy and the visionary leadership behind it. This mural, rooted in heritage, flavor, and community spirit, symbolizes what’s possible when entrepreneurship and the arts come together with purpose.

We are profoundly honored to have been chosen to bring this story to life through public art. Your support has elevated our mission and allowed us to plant deeper roots in the communities we serve.

As we continue to build a movement that honors untold stories and transforms spaces, we look forward to exploring more meaningful ways to partner with Roscoe’s and celebrate the impact of your iconic brand.

With appreciation,The Concrete Rose Project Inc.

https://www.roscoeschickenandwaffles.com/