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Betye Saar, The Liberation of Aunt Jemima, 1972

This artwork is an assemblage which is a three-dimensional sculpture made from found
objects and/or mixed media. It’s essentially like a 3d version of a collage.

In the artwork, Saar included a knick-knack she found of Aunt Jemina. It was Aunt Jemima
with a broom in one hand and a pencil in the other with a notepad on her stomach. Instead
of the pencil, she placed a gun, and on the other hand, she had Aunt Jemima hold a hand
grenade. In the spot for the paper, she placed a postcard of a stereotypical “mammy” holding
a biracial baby. The mammy’s skirt is made up of a black fist, a black power symbol. She put
this assemblage into a box and plastered the background with Aunt Jemima product labels.

There is 3 parts to this activity:

1. Subjective question and answer (opinions)

2. A video to watch
3. Understanding and application of critical lenses

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Objective: A practice on creative perspective thinking and expressing thoughts

through words (oral and/or written). There is no maximum word limit. 90% of
the text should be your own words, the remaining 10% (only applicable to the
3rd part of this activity) can be cited texts and need to be included in
Bibliography.

Part 1

1. What was your first reaction to seeing this image?

My first reaction to this artwork by Betye Saar was the strong impression that the
artist was creating artwork that serves as a medium for political protest and social
activism. This was evidenced through the way the artist used exaggerated symbols to
shed negativity towards the artwork.

2. What do these images remind you of?

My initial response to this image was that it presented a captivating depiction of an

African-American woman, specifically resembling Aunt Jemima. Within a confined
space outlined by bold lines, numerous symbols and objects coexist. In this space, an
exaggerated portrayal of an African woman, radiantly smiling, dons a full
polka-dotted dress symbolising American identity. The confined space adds to the
sense of claustrophobia, she is forced into a box that metaphorically represents the
societal construct of racial marginalisation, gender inequality and social hierarchy
which makes her trapped and isolated.

The depiction of Aunt Jemina with exaggerated plump lips, large eyes and a curvy
figure feeds into the stereotypes asserted onto black women. Her expression is also
painted to look doltish, which was intended to look down on her social status as a
nanny and caretaker without a stable job or her limited education. The presence of
brooms and pistols is placed beside her, which threatens her safety and protection
possibly alluding to the systemic violence black minorities face whilst the black power
‘fist’ contradicts it by giving her the power back to reclaim her own identity and voice.
The white cotton balls beneath Aunt Jemima allude to potential hints of
whitewashing and she holds a broom, metaphorically sweeping it away from her.

The recurring patterns of breakfast goods collaged to the background and the pie on
the floor suggest that Aunt Jemima is a symbol of a caring and full hearted person -
that serves, feeds and looks after her community, making sure they’re well nourished
and satisfied. However, it could also allude to her
role as a means of production, solely existing for labour and commodified into a
product. The notepad covering part of her lower body depicts Aunt Jemima holding a
biracial baby, blending Saar's portrayal of African-American identity with aspirations
of harmony and peace.

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3. Describe the women in this image. What is wrong about how they are
being portrayed?

What’s wrong about the way the Black women are being portrayed in this artwork is
that it addresses the problematic and racist stereotypes associated with Aunt Jemima
and the broader history of how Black women were historically depicted in media and
popular culture. Aunt Jemima was originally portrayed as a "mammy" figure, which
perpetuates harmful stereotypes of Black women as subservient, loyal, and content in
their roles as domestic workers for white families. These depictions reduced Black
women to one-dimensional caricatures, erasing their individuality and reinforcing
racist ideas.

4. What is the artist trying to say by putting these objects and images
together? What is her message?

Aunt Jemina Image - The central figure in the artwork is Aunt Jemima, a historically
stereotypical and subservient portrayal of Black women. Her presence represents the
long-standing racial and gender stereotypes that have oppressed Black women in
American society.

Subversion of Stereotype - The artwork subverts the Aunt Jemima stereotype by

showing her breaking free from her traditional role. She's armed with a rifle and a
broom, which can be seen as symbols of empowerment and resistance. This
transformation may symbolise the desire for liberation from oppressive roles and
stereotypes.

African Mask - The African mask on the left side of the artwork serves as a symbol of
African heritage and spirituality. It links Aunt Jemima to her African roots and
suggests a reclamation of her cultural identity.

Caged Bird - The caged bird in the top left corner of the piece symbolises confinement
and restriction. It reflects the historical and ongoing struggles of Black individuals to
break free from societal limitations and racial discrimination.

Chains - The chains hanging from Aunt Jemima's waist symbolise the historical
bondage and oppression faced by Black people in the United States. Their presence
emphasises the need for liberation and freedom.

Celestial Imagery - The celestial imagery, including stars and moons, represents
hope, transcendence, and the aspiration for a better future. It suggests that Aunt
Jemima's liberation is not only physical but also spiritual and cosmic.

Collage Elements - Saar uses collage elements like a postage stamp of a Black man's
face and a "Special" label. These symbols may allude to the idea of racial pride and
the need to recognize the uniqueness and value of Black individuals.

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Broom - The broom in Aunt Jemima's hand is a symbol of both domestic labour and
the act of sweeping away old, oppressive ideologies. It signifies a clean break from the
past and the desire to create a new narrative.

Cross - The cross behind Aunt Jemima might symbolise both Christianity, which was
often used to justify slavery and subjugation, and the idea of resurrection or rebirth.
It can be seen as a sign of spiritual transformation and hope.

5. Saar called this her first protest piece. What is she protesting?

The artwork protests against the racist and demeaning stereotypes perpetuated by
the "Aunt Jemima" character, which was historically used to promote a popular
brand of pancake mix and syrup. Aunt Jemima was a caricature of a black woman
portrayed as a "mammy" figure, a stereotype that reinforced subservience and
perpetuated harmful racial stereotypes. She is depicted as a subservient, loyal and
hardworking caretaker enslaved by her white owners. She exists to criticise the white
patriarchal standards of the time by being forced into a docile, soft and fragile nature
that has no authority over the rights of her body and the way she is presented. Her
painted exaggerated features reminds how she is being perceived as a black woman,
scrutinised for her appearance.

6. Why do you think the artist included the gun and hand grenade? Do you
think they symbolise violence or something else?

The inclusion of a gun and hand grenade in the artwork can be interpreted in various
ways. Firstly, both objects could be used to symbolise empowerment and resistance.
They represent Aunt Jemina’s rejection of the stereotypical "mammy" or "servile"
image and her assertion of agency and self-determination. The presence of these
objects could convey a message of defiance against racial and gender stereotypes.

Furthermore, these objects can also symbolise a “catalyst for change”. In the context
of the civil rights movement and the broader struggle for racial and gender equality in
the United States, firearms have been seen as instruments of change and revolution.
The gun in Aunt Jemima's hand can be seen as a call for change and an
acknowledgment of the role that resistance and activism played in the fight for civil
rights. These violent symbols could also be a commentary on the violence and
struggle inherent in the fight for civil rights and equality. It may highlight the harsh
realities faced by African Americans in their pursuit of justice and freedom.

Historically, we know that Black communities (especially in the context of 1950-60s

America) have faced marginalisation, and Aunt Jemima represents the sexual
violence and subjugation of Black female slaves by white men. Thus, the gun may
serve as a need for her as a purpose of “self defence and protection.” By collaging a
raised fist over the postcard, invoking a symbol of ‘black power’, cleverly subverts the
portrayal of a ‘submissive’, ‘fragile’ and ‘vulnerable’ woman impacted by
marginalisation into giving her own power back.

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Part 2
Saar’s goal in using these controversial and racist images was to reclaim them and turn
them into positive symbols of empowerment.
Watch: Betye Saar: The Liberation of Aunt Jemima

Part 3
Use at least 3 critical lenses to interpret the artwork.
We can look at the artwork through a critical lens of [your choice of critical lens]. Elaborate
on how you are using this lens to interpret the artwork.

1) Feminist Lens

"The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" by Betye Saar is a significant piece of artwork that can be
viewed through a feminist lens. This artwork, created in 1972, is a mixed-media assemblage
that reimagines and challenges the stereotypical image of "Aunt Jemima," a fictional
character that has been used to perpetuate racial and gender stereotypes in American
culture.

One of the primary aspects of feminist analysis is the deconstruction of stereotypes related to
women. "The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" challenges the Aunt Jemima stereotype, which has
historically portrayed Black women as submissive, nurturing, and domestic servants. By
deconstructing this stereotype, Saar highlights the limitations and harm that such
stereotypes can impose on women, particularly Black women. In this artwork, Aunt Jemima
is transformed from a passive caricature into a powerful, liberated figure. Saar replaces the
traditional pancake mix box with symbols of strength and self-determination, such as a
clenched fist and a raised Black Power salute. This transformation symbolises the
reclamation of Black women's identities and their right to self-determination.

Feminism acknowledges the intersectionality of oppression, recognizing that individuals can

experience multiple forms of discrimination simultaneously. "The Liberation of Aunt
Jemima" addresses both racial, social status and gender oppression by focusing on the image
of a Black woman. This intersectional perspective highlights the unique challenges faced by
Black women and the importance of addressing both racism and sexism. This is exemplified
by the artwork where Aunt Jemima holds an image of her a with a “biracial baby” where in
other words, could possibly be her own child representing the sexual assault and subjugation
of black female slaves by white men. This demonstrates her powerlessness over the lack of
autonomy in this situation as a woman where she is taken advantage of, and cannot resort to
any form of justice. Furthermore, the image of Aunt Jemima criticises the male gaze by
holding a raised fist over the postcard, invoking the symbol for black power by taking back
her rights as a woman in rejection of being objectified into a sexual object of promiscuity
and sexuality.

In summary, Betye Saar's "The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" can be viewed through a feminist
lens as a powerful critique of gender and racial stereotypes, a reclamation of identity, a
critique of consumer culture, an exploration of intersectionality, and an expression of

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empowerment for Black women. It invites viewers to engage in a critical examination of the
role of imagery and stereotypes in shaping societal perceptions of women, particularly Black
women.

2) Marxist Lens

Analysing the artwork "The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" by Betye Saar through a Marxist
lens involves examining the piece in the context of class struggle, capitalism, and the
exploitation of labour. The urban dictionary defines “Marxism” as a socio-economic and
political theory that focuses on the conflict between the capitalist bourgeoisie (owners of the
means of production) and the working-class proletariat (those who sell their labour to
survive). It exists to critique the cultural and ideological aspects that support or challenge
this system.

Marxist analysis typically begins by looking at the class dynamics in society. This is reflected
in the artwork of "The Liberation of Aunt Jemima," where you can see elements related to
class struggle. The Aunt Jemima character represents the stereotypical image of a Black
woman serving as a domestic worker, which reflects the historical exploitation of Black
labour in service roles. Marxism also highlights how capitalism perpetuates exploitation and
alienation. In the artwork, Aunt Jemima is shown breaking free from her traditional role as a
symbol of servitude. This can be seen as a metaphorical representation of workers breaking
free from their exploitation by the capitalist class. It challenges the idea that certain racial
and economic groups are destined to fulfil specific roles and be oppressed.

Furthermore through the Marxists lens, it also analyses how capitalism commodifies culture
for profit. The cariacrature of Aunt Jemima depicted in the artwork was a corporate mascot
used to sell baking products, and essentially Saar's piece critiques the capitalist practice of
using racial stereotypes to sell goods.

Historically, the brand image was based off of Nancy Green (a former slave worker and later
a caretaker for a white family) who was hired to be advertised as the face of “Aunt Jemina”
when she was discovered in 1890 by Charles C. Jackson, a food wholesaler. Previously, the
image on pancake boxes and syrup dispensers was originally inspired by the song “Old Aunt
Jemima,” which was popularised in the 1870s by Billy Kersands, a Black comedian, and
performed, often by white men, in minstrel shows. In 1889, they branded their self-rising
pancake flour with the Aunt Jemima name. However, the product could not sell as it was
better at promotion than profit making, which prompted them to find a ‘real life Aunt
Jemina’ to represent the brand.

The marketed story of Aunt Jemima mythology transported Green to a tiny cabin in
Louisiana, where she was the loyal cook for Colonel Higbee, a plantation owner on the
Mississippi. When Union soldiers during the Civil War threatened to rip off his moustache,
the story went, she diverted them with her pancakes long enough for the colonel to escape.
The troops were so smitten that they urged her to come north and share her recipe. In
promotional material, Aunt Jemima was called “the cook whose cabin became more famous
than Uncle Tom’s.” The Aunt Jemima logo sold because it was based on the outgrowth of Old

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South plantation nostalgia and romance at the time of economic downturn and workers
migrating to the cities to look for job opportunities. However, the image grounded in an idea
about the ‘mammy,’ a devoted and submissive servant who eagerly nurtured the children of
her white master and mistress while neglecting her own. In addition, her existence is only
grounded within the freedom of being granted the role of a caretaker or nanny to serve her
lifetime for a white household that was promising to be a slave worker. Thus, the artwork of
Aunt Jemima raises questions about how capitalism exploits and distorts cultural symbols
for economic gain, questioning the ethics of such branding.

3) Post-Colonial Lens

"The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" is a significant artwork by Betye Saar, an African American
artist known for her powerful contributions to the feminist and civil rights movements. To
analyse this artwork through a post-colonial lens, we need to consider the historical and
cultural context in which it was created and the ways in which it challenges and deconstructs
colonial and racial narratives. Key sociologist - Elam (2019) defines “postcolonialism theory”
as the critical examination of political, cultural, aesthetic, economic, linguistic, historical,
and social impacts of (generally European) colonial rule. The lens is then used to criticise the
effects of colonialism and to deconstruct its premises.

One of the primary aspects of a post-colonial analysis of this artwork would be the
deconstruction of racial stereotypes. Aunt Jemima is a character rooted in a long history of
racist caricatures, perpetuated during and after the colonial period. Saar's artwork challenges
this stereotype by reimagining Aunt Jemima as a powerful, liberated figure. This challenges
the colonial legacy of reducing Black individuals to subservient, one-dimensional
stereotypes. In a post-colonial context, the act of reclaiming one's identity and agency is
crucial. "The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" can be seen as an act of reclaiming the identity of a
Black woman who was historically portrayed as a submissive and obedient servant. The
artwork symbolises the rejection of the colonial narrative that sought to dehumanise and
subjugate Black people.

The artwork also subverts colonial symbols and objects. Aunt Jemima was originally a
marketing icon for a pancake mix, perpetuating a racialized and stereotypical image of Black
women as domestic servants. Saar takes this symbol and transforms it into a representation
of resistance and liberation. This subversion of colonial symbols challenges the power
structures that perpetuated racial hierarchies during the colonial period. Post-colonial
analysis often incorporates intersectionality, which considers how multiple forms of
oppression (race, gender, class, etc.) intersect. In this context, "The Liberation of Aunt
Jemima" can be seen as addressing both racial and gendered aspects of oppression. It
challenges not only racial stereotypes but also gender roles and expectations. In a way, Aunt
Jemima’s lived experiences as a slave worker and a caretaker to a white household shaped
her past traumas that would then trickle down to generational trauma of her future children.
Generational trauma refers to the emotional, psychological, and cultural wounds that are
passed down from one generation to the next, often as a result of historical and systemic
injustices, violence, or oppression. It is a concept commonly associated with the African

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American experience in the United States due to the legacy of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and
ongoing racial discrimination.

Post-colonialism also emphasises the concept of cultural hybridity, where cultures blend and
evolve as a result of colonial encounters. Saar's artwork, with its combination of various
elements and symbols, can be seen as a representation of cultural hybridity. It fuses elements
from African, African American, and Western cultures to create a new narrative that
challenges colonial legacies. Saar surrounds Aunt Jemima with powerful symbols of Black
culture and history, such as the clenched Black power fist, African masks, and spiritual
elements. These symbols represent a break from the past and a demand for liberation and
equality.

In summary, a post-colonial lens allows us to view "The Liberation of Aunt Jemima" by Betye
Saar as a powerful critique of the colonial legacy of racial and gendered oppression. It
reclaims agency, challenges stereotypes, subverts colonial symbols, and embodies the
concept of cultural hybridity, all of which are central to post-colonial discourse. Through this
lens, the artwork becomes a statement of resistance and empowerment in the face of
historical colonial narratives.

SOURCES:

The Liberation of Aunt Jemima by Betye Saar - A Reflection on its Legacy

https://www.widewalls.ch/magazine/betye-saar-the-liberation-of-aunt-jemima

Liberating Aunt Jemima -

https://westharlem.art/2020/06/22/liberating-aunt-jemina/#:~:text=Into%20Aunt%20Jemima%
27s%20skirt%2C%20which,female%20slaves%20by%20white%20men.

Overlooked No More: Nancy Green, the ‘Real Aunt Jemima’ -

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/17/obituaries/nancy-green-aunt-jemima-overlooked.html

Aunt Jemima brand to change name, remove image that Quaker says is 'based on a
racial stereotype' -
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/aunt-jemima-brand-will-change-name-remove-image-
quaker-says-n1231260

Beyte Saar’s Deeply Spiritual Works Reflect on Over 50 years of Lived Back History -
https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-betye-saars-deeply-spiritual-works-reflect-50-years-
lived-black-history

How Betye Saar Transformed Aunt Jemima into a Symbol of Black Power -
https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-betye-saar-transformed-aunt-jemima-symbol-black-
power

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