Editorial View
The Gallery's Perspective
There’s an immediate sense of delighted surprise in this little scene — a child caught mid-balancing act, umbrella aloft, cheeks parted as if to exclaim. The sculpture’s posture and wide-eyed expression make her moment of precarious play feel affectionate rather than alarmed. Bright, playful color — the purple ball sprinkled with yellow stars, her green-striped pants and the sunny orange-and-yellow umbrella — gives the figure a circuslike, celebratory air. Small details, from the textured braids to the stacked bangles and the wrap tied at her hip, lend personality and warmth without fuss. Because she stands lightly on a round, star-flecked ball, the piece carries a sense of movement and joyful risk; it’s a snapshot of childhood confidence and curiosity. As an object, it brings a touch of whimsy and human presence wherever it’s displayed, a reminder of youthful daring and the small, brave gestures that feel important when you’re young.
The Artwork
About Tiny Tina
In a joyous celebration of youth, Thomas Blackshear creates a festive and heartwarming collection with a fanciful childhood performance. Tiny Tina joins the Jamboree Parade, a colorful addition to the joyous childhood festivity. Interlocking bases allow figures to be rearranged for display in any configuration.
Tiny Tina is precariously balanced on a ball. You can almost hear her say, "Oh!" as she struggles to steady herself.
Retired Dec 2009.
Collector Details
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About the Collection
Ebony Visions is a celebrated collection of African American figurines, created by renowned artist Thomas Blackshear. These limited edition sculptures capture the grace, strength, and spirituality of Black culture, blending elegant craftsmanship with deep cultural heritage. Each hand-painted statue reflects Blackshear’s signature style, bringing symbolism and storytelling to life through fine art. Ebony Visions collectibles are highly sought after for their artistic beauty and historical significance, making them treasured pieces for art enthusiasts and collectors of African American art.
Image Rights
Image copyright © 2026 by Ebony Visions.
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Authenticity & Documentation
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"I always knew I wanted to create Ebony Visions'. As an artist who happens to be black, I had distinct ideas about what I would like to see in the line." The elegant compeling figurines he created for the collection are a blen of both Art Nouveau and African culture, which Thomas calls "Afro-Nouveau." - Thomas Blackshear .Thomas Blackshear introduced Ebony Visions in April 1995 with the release of the first six Ebony Visions designs, The Storyteller, The Protector, The Nurturer, Siblings, Madonna and Tender Touch. Since then, Thomas Blackshear has created many new designs to add to the Ebony Visions collection. Thomas Blackshear's Ebony Visions collection is a master work of romantic symbolism. As with his paintings, these sculptures demonstrate Thomas Blackshear's incredible sense of design, unique eclectic style, and extraordinary mastery of color. Elegant drapery and delicate detail tantalize the eye while revealing each sculpted form. Thomas Blackshear's Ebony Visions depicts a full range of emotions that are both powerful and at the same time subtle. He deliberately portrays his Ebony Visions figures in a timeless setting in order to transcend a specific time, place, or culture. This unique collection of limited edition figurines emphasizes the beauty of the human form and symbolizes universal aspirations and ideals of humankind depicted through images that reflect the unique characteristics of the African American culture. For centuries classical beauty has been portrayed predominantly by white artisans who represent white subjects in their art. In this romantic and subtle tour de force, Thomas Blackshear creates a new vision of beauty and human emotion, an Ebony Vision.
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