The art behind our initiative
The Other Me, 2014
Charcoal and pastel on paper
A reflection of strength and belonging
The Other Me by Marianne Sebetti embodies resilience, identity, and heritage, portraying an African woman with traditional markings, standing powerfully over a cityscape. Her stance, with a grounded staff, asserts her place in the world (connection to the land) - a tribute to heritage and self-affirmation amidst change. Accented with vibrant beads and colors, this piece symbolizes the strength and cultural richness found throughout society.
Here, the image serves as a visual emblem of Reimagine Funding’s mission to uplift and empower communities by honoring their past and supporting their future.
Rendered in charcoal, the monochromatic tones highlight her form against the urban expanse, allowing the eye to linger on vivid pastel accents. An intricate cascade of beaded necklaces drapes from her neck to her waist, each strand vibrant and alive, suggesting a lineage that flows from past to present. The colorful hem of her dress offers a striking contrast against the grayscale, hinting at hidden depths and the journey she embodies.
In this piece, the interplay of traditional markings and modern cityscape speaks to the coexistence of heritage and modern identity, a balance between roots and personal assertion in a world that’s ever-evolving.
“When I dare to be powerful - to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid..”
— Audre Lorde