Woman In Red
$1,500.00
Editorial View
The Gallery's Perspective
There is a clear sense of uplift in this work — not literal levitation so much as gratitude made visible. A single, suit-clad figure is shown elevated above a group whose bowed heads and folded hands form a human platform; his face is tilted upward, eyes closed, arms open in a quiet, exultant gesture. The limited palette of warm grays and soft sepia gives the scene a reverent, almost timeless quality, while the loose, slightly textured handling around the figures keeps the focus on their bodies and expressions rather than on fine detail. You feel the weight of history and communal effort in the stooped backs and weathered faces that support him; the contrast between their grounded, physical labor and his lifted pose quietly honors both sacrifice and hope. Clouded skies in the background add a solemn, atmospheric sweep that makes the moment feel like a ceremony of thanks. It’s a piece that speaks simply and powerfully about lineage, collective endurance, and the debt owed to those who carry us forward.
The Artwork
About On Their Shoulders
On Their Shoulders. This black and white giclee print, is called "On Their Shoulders," and is presented on canvas already on stretchers and ready to frame
I created this piece to recognize and honor those who came before us. Those people whose shoulders we stand on, whose work and effort and love and support helped us to become the men and women we are today. This honors our ancestors and our partners. Our families and friends. It's like in the Bible where it says, "on this foundation I build my church".
Collector Details
What to Know About This Piece
Product-specific details, edition information, provenance, and special considerations are shown here when applicable.
About the Collection
Gilbert Young is a renowned African American artist, muralist, and art conservator whose work profoundly captures the African American experience. His iconic painting, He Ain't Heavy, exemplifies his commitment to figurative realism and serves as a powerful piece of social commentary. Beyond his studio work, Young has made significant contributions as a community activist, creating impactful public murals that celebrate cultural heritage and address pertinent social issues. His art not only reflects the richness of African American culture but also inspires dialogue and understanding within the broader community.
Artist Signature
Signed and documented
This piece is signed by the artist and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
Image Rights
Image copyright © 2026 by Gilbert Young.
Authorized Source
Authenticity & Documentation
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Gilbert Young's support of various community activities and events in his native town of Cincinnati, Ohio spans over two decades. He was active there in both the artistic and scholastic arenas. Young served as Director and Conservator of the Fine Arts Collection for the University of Cincinnati for twenty-six years. He also served as Artist-in Residence for the University in 1994-1995.
Dating back to 1975, this multi-talented, multi-faceted, internationally known artist has lent the use of his images and time to many community projects and organizations. Young served as a consultant to the Harriet Beecher Stowe House Project, a renovation and restoration project for the Harriet Beecher Stowe house, creating a cultural arts center for the visual and performing arts in Cincinnati. In 1991, when the Cincinnati branch of the National Council of Negro Women hosted its first "Black Family Reunion", Gilbert was asked to provide the image that would become the official poster of the event. He also lent the use of his image, "Inside Daddy's World" , to The Black Male Coalition of Greater Cincinnati, Inc. in 1995 as the cover of their brochure and one of his most profound works, a commissioned portrait of civil rights leader Dr. martin Luther King hangs in the lobby of University Hospital.
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