Written April 15, 2015
Amethyst, also known as Patricia Kevena Fili, passed away on the 19th of March, 2015. While at her memorial at the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland today, April 15, 2015, I had an idea that led to the creation of this series of writings saying thank you to the people who had profound impact on my art. This is one more thing I get to thank her for, after the fact.
The short story of what this woman meant to me:
Many years ago, Amethyst inspired me to do a series of art work featuring people who identify as transgender. She even generously arranged for an exhibition of the work and a related series of drawings at the Lighthouse Community Center in Hayward. The exhibition and series of four paintings were called Divine Being. The image featured with this post is my painting of Amethyst as Sehkmet, our Protectress, offered up now in eulogy and honor.
Passion, strength, compassion. These are the characteristics I remember most. And I will forever see her walking in a field with lionesses.
Sekhmet, Our Protectress copyright Sarah Soward is the featured image for this post.