Social Justice Art Appraisal

Trayvon Martin Mixed Media Tribute Set

This is a two-piece contemporary art installation featuring acrylic paint on disparate found objects, serving as a memorial for Trayvon Martin. The primary element is a painted newspaper sheet, exhibiting a stylized portrait of Martin wearing his signature grey hoodie, accented with a gold crown and the bold text 'DONT SHOOT I WANTED TO GROW OLD'. The paint handling is expressive and raw, using heavy black outlines and vibrant reds. The paper shows natural creasing and edge wear consistent with its ephemeral nature. The secondary element is a metal beverage can (Arizona Raspberry Tea) that has been hand-painted with a faceless version of the same hooded silhouette, a gold crown, and the name 'Trayvon Martin' inscribed at the base. The construction is a classic example of 'Found Object Art' or 'Assemblage,' reflecting a 21st-century grassroots political movement style. The condition is intended to be rustic; the newspaper is wrinkled, and the can is a standard recycled aluminum container, adding to the urban, street-art aesthetic. There are no visible traditional maker's marks, suggesting it may be a community-driven or outsider artist piece created shortly after 2012. The craftsmanship focuses on emotional impact and symbolic meaning rather than formal academic precision.