I was deeply moved by the quilt, which had Shirley Chisholm at its center. Like Shirley, I firmly believe that individuals should occupy spaces that have historically excluded them, and I felt that the quilt’s position in the museum empowered this message. The outer green contrasted with the big, bold colors that made up Shirley. Also, the quilt was visibly large and at the center of its exhibit. The chairs that adorned Shirely’s skirt reaffirmed that we should all take a seat at the table and be seen, heard, and recognized. I also feel that this message is politically relevant since Kamala Harris (a black female politician similar to Shirley) is the Democratic frontrunner in the presidential race. Overall, when observing the quilt, many thoughts and feelings rushed through my head. I felt seen, heard, and recognized.

This art piece for me conveys a powerful message about rest and the lived experience of labor. The quote by Cole Arthur Riley also highlights a key point: rest is not something earned through exhaustion; it is something you are inherently worthy of. As a student working part time, this piece resonates with me on multiple levels. Balancing academics with work is very demanding, and it’s essential to recognize that rest is a necessary part of that balance. Just like the woman depicted in the art, I too experience fatigue and exhaustion, and the message here suggests the importance of valuing my well-being as I strive toward my goals. I don’t need to overwork myself to feel deserving of rest; it is an integral part of maintaining a sustainable balance between study, work, and personal care.

I really liked this painting because it reminded me of my mother and her relationship with catholicism. My mom is Nicaraguan and Catholicism is the main religion in the country. They have religious celebrations that are solely focused on Mother Mary like “La Gritería” which was my favorite holiday to celebrate any winter and summer I had spent in Nicaragua. Mary is meant to symbolize purity and religious commitment to the holy trinity. I myself am not religious but I do enjoy the holiday. There are many altars and paintings on the day of the celebration which this painting reminded me of.

I thought the museum was very diverse so I saw every culture being represented or displayed along the 5th and 3rd floors. There were painting and sculptures depicting the history of discrimination that people of color have faced in this country and that I know many New Yorkers ancestors have face.