Amanda Gorman, 2021
American poet and activist
48 x 60 inches
Oil on canvas
“There is always light. If only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it.”
—Amanda Gorman
Amanda Gorman came to world’s attention in 2021 when she delivered her poem "The Hill We Climb" at the inauguration of U.S. President Joe Biden. Her poem generated international acclaim, and shortly thereafter, two of her books achieved best-seller status. Focusing on issues of feminism, race, oppression, marginalization and the African diaspora Gorman was the first person to be named National Youth Poet Laureate. Her inauguration poem In February 2021 was highlighted in Time magazine's 100 Next list under the category of Phenoms.