Moving to Cuernavaca, Mexico in 1991, Lofton began to explore the art of the native Indian population. As an expatriate, he saw that “there was a relation between [his] my art and Mexican art. I love the art of the Huichola Indians…I like, very much their sensitivity, they have much of African creativity in form, color and spirit.” In Huichol art and tradition he felt an acute affinity to his African roots. Debutante is an odd title for this work. The upper half of the figure’s face is masklike which Lofton often used, referring to African art and the idea of “masking” in African American culture. Oddly enough, elaborate hats are worn by the male in Huichola, especially by shamans. The hat is decorated with flowers as well as decorative motifs on the dress and jewelry on the neckline. The verticality of the pose gives a sense of dignity to this figure and a monumentality rooted in the dignity of these people.

Signed J Lofton (in script), lower left corner.

This work includes frame and certificate of authenticity signed by the artist.