The inspiration for this painting was from a photograph in Gordon Parks' book, Segregation Story. I was inspired by the color contrasts as well as the shadows. The composition is a cropped version of Gordon's photograph. I wanted to focus on these two beautiful young ladies and have them be the center focus, flanked by a darkened doorway. I was drawn to how the colors of the church front and the dry dusty ground captured the feeling of a searing hot day in the South. The young ladies personify elegance and resiliency amidst regrettable conditions. They may be looking down, but their presence made me feel a sense of pride. I too want to know their story!