Nina Simone

From an early age, Russell Young, who was born in Northern England, was drawn to the idea of the quintessential "American dream," which to him, represented freedom and possibility.

His bold, iconic silkscreen paintings of pop imagery explore the nature of American culture as seen through the eyes of a foreigner, focusing on characters and events that glamorize and chastise in equal measure.

Nina Simone, the subject of this print, stares directly out at the viewer with a look that is equal parts determination and confidence.

Born in 1933 in Tryon, North Carolina, Simone was a singer, songwriter, and musician who became one of the most important figures in the industry during the second half of the 20th century. She was well known for her strong stance on racial and social injustice, both in her music and her personal activism.