Black Madonna

The author continues the themes present in the works of Andrzej Zając – an artist fascinated by images of African women. She creates embroidery using the cross stitch technique on canvas. Additionally, she uses readymade elements such as necklaces or earrings (reproductions). This allows her works to become three-dimensional, a feature which is further emphasised by presentation in glass display cases. The images, when viewed from a certain distance, have an almost photographic quality to them. From up close, the use of multi-coloured threads becomes apparent. An example piece features a well-proportioned face of an African woman wearing an orange headscarf with traditional tribal motifs. The colour scheme is consistent with the three beaded necklaces draped around her neck and the forged bronze circles of earrings. Joanna Zybert portrays strong, beautiful, African women.