The artwork series “Sethemba: Man of Tomorrow”, by Cary Michael was inspired by the fictional superhero characters "Luke Cage", "Black Lightening" and "Black Panther". The series aims to address the numerous social issues our nation is facing today in an exploratory, honest, yet culturally engaging manner. Showcased in a series of mixed media, sequential-styled works of art, each masterpiece features the fictional superhero that Cary Michael created named “Sethemba” (Zulu word meaning “hope”) as a swallowtail butterfly who has been summoned to resolve various prominent issues of today such as social injustice, domestic violence, depression, acceptance and anxiety. From Sethemba’s inception to his evolution, this exhibition provocatively documents his maturation into an all-powerful “superhuman”, bearing extraordinary attributes such as regeneration, duplication and augmentation (as demonstrated in select works of art below). As this is an ongoing series, it is my "hope" that viewers of these works can depict Sethemba as a role model figure and acquire a sense of joy and healing in the belief that our nation will soon be relieved from the recurring societal issues we continue to endure.
Shop the SETHEMBA: Man of Tomorrow collection here.
L.E.A.F. –
Let’s Exceed
All Fears
Mixed Media: Acrylic Paint and Bronze Leaf
on Canvas
24 x 48
2018
Before there was the swallowtail butterfly, there was Sethemba in caterpillar form. He bears a one track mind, has no direction and no concept of the great beyond. Survival remains his sole purpose as he “crawls” through life at a slow pace with all of his burdens on his back. But, just when living seems as difficult as it can possibly be, an unexpected “change” occurs. He doesn’t understand how or why, but the only thing he must do is comply!
W.R.A.P. –
When Reality
Amends Perception
Mixed Media: Resin, Rope,
Silk Leaf, Glitter and
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2020
Sethemba finds himself wound tightly inside a silky shell, known as a cocoon. Surrounded by this artificial skin, Sethemba enters a transformative state, as the cocoon serves as a symbol of safety and regenerative healing. While affixed to the branch of a tree, he is instantly reminded of a dark history that includes the lynching of African American slaves after inflicting torture and corporal mutilation. However, Sethemba realizes that although being hung from a tree once symbolized death, he is being hung to undergo a transformation that will ultimately lead to regeneration, rebirth and resurrection!
M.O.M –
Moment of
Metamorphosis
Mixed Media: Bronze Leaf, Clear Resin
and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
48 x 48
2018
Sethemba instantly finds himself in a dark, enclosed space and feels himself melting into nothingness. He surrenders his thoughts into the inevitable, and in this moment, his intended purpose burgeons. Emerging from the darkness of his ordeal, Sethemba allows fluid to fill his new structure, and he slowly begins to process the fact that he will no longer have to crawl everywhere!
M.E. –
Maturation Embodied
Mixed Media: Acrylic Paint and Bronze Leaf on Canvas
36 x 48
2018
Slowly, Sethemba grasps the concept that life for him has totally transformed. Colors fill his senses and fluid pumps into wings: wings that can lift the lowly caterpillar to heights of which he had never dreamed! It is a risky venture, but still, Sethemba realizes that his “wings” must be intended to move. A cautious flap and then another – a gust of wind catches him, and he begins to lift above!
S.E.L.F. –
Solely Engage
Lifelong Fulfillment
Mixed Media: Black & White Collage Prints,
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2018
Launching into his true purpose, Sethemba uses his wings in tandem to guide his own path. He flutters towards the light of the sun, which gives him energy and strength to “light” the path of others! He receives confirmation that he must fulfil the duty of a #Lightworker and carries this flame inside of his soul in order to illuminate and enlighten the world. As a #Lightworker, Sethemba takes the role of being a healer and is extremely empathetic. He aims to help others awaken and realize their own strengths, abilities and purpose. He is on a journey to help heal the planet by continuing to heal those who inhabit it!
A.D.A.M. – All Dreams Are
Mystical (A.K.A. Mr. Chocolate)
Mixed Media: Print Wall Paper, Craft Butterfly, Silk Plants and Acrylic Paint
on Canvas
36 x 48
2015
Sethemba (positioned atop the shrubbery) encounters Adam, who was the first man to inhabit earth. Adam arrived on the planet with no childhood, no parents, no family, and no friends. Although he was made in the image of his Creator and shared a close relationship with Him, Adam suffered from extreme loneliness and constantly dreamed of having a spouse and kids. He made excuses for himself regularly, and instead of facing the reality of his own circumstances, he often hid from his Creator in shame. However, Sethemba came to encourage Adam that all dreams are possible, if he freely chose to obey his Creator and stopped blaming himself for things beyond his control. He also encouraged Adam to accept personal responsibility, which prompted Adam to accept the task of naming animals. Needless to say, Sethemba soon discovered that he was a “butterfly”!
E.V.E. – Ensured Virtuosity Exists
(A.K.A. Ms. Thunder)
Mixed Media: Gold Leaf, Glitter and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2015
After hearing the concerns of Adam, Sethemba communicates to his Creator the need for Adam to have a companion. Shortly thereafter, Eve is brought forth as the first woman to inhabit earth. She was made from the image of the Creator and was designed to be a helper to Adam. Eve was fully submissive to Adam, while he remained fully submissive to his Creator. However, she eventually became confronted with evil, and soon began to act impulsively and independent of her authority without consulting Adam or her Creator. Falling into this temptation, she lost sight of all the pleasurable things that her Creator had blessed her with. However, Sethemba (located within the vine near the red apple) came to encourage Eve that she was still virtuous and that the purpose for creation could not be fulfilled without the equal participation of “womankind”. Once she realized her worth, she eventually proceeded to birth children and carry out the nurturing duties of a wife and mother without any guidance, whatsoever!
M.E.O.W. – Mother Earth’s
Original Womb
Mixed Media: Black & White Collage Prints, Jewelry
Elements, Silk Plants and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
48 x 60
2018
Sethemba meets Mother Earth, who is a “healing goddess” that focuses on the life-giving and nurturing aspects of nature by embodying it in the form of the mother. Because he is unsure of his origin, Sethemba learns that it is a mother who conceives us from her fertile womb, it is also by nature that we are all brought forth into this world in iniquity. No matter our upbringing and no matter the outcome of our life experiences, we must realize that we can always turn away from our former ways and look to nature to be soothed and healed. In return, we should always do our best to make our earth a better place to live in. When we nurture nature, nature nurtures us until we return unto Mother Earth!
I.C.E. – I Can Evolve
Mixed Media: Jewelry
Elements, LED Lights
and Acrylic on Canvas
36 x 48
2018
Sethemba meets the Ice Queen, a beautiful, smart and impeccably dressed girl, who has become bitter, cold-blooded and HEARTLESS. She longed to live a fairytale life, but instead, has got her heart broken one too many times. Once upon a time, she was willing to trust, love and let herself be vulnerable with someone, but her last relationship ended in a nightmare, and as a result, she has become jaded. However, Sethemba comes to encourage her to take some time to silence her thoughts, find her breath, and exhale. She blows a cloud of snow “dust” to commemorate her failed relationship, and then realizes that it is her responsibility to move on, grow and change for herself, as there is still “hope” after all!
H.O.P.E. – Highly Optimistic
&
Powerfully Efficient
Mixed Media: Black &
White Collage Prints,
Jewelry Elements and
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2017
Sethemba encounters Nefertiti, who wears a three-tiered crown (equivalent to the building design of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture). She gives him insight into future occurrences of social injustice, domestic violence and other worldly issues leading up to the final days of mankind. This sets off an alarm, as Sethemba realizes that he MUST flash forward into the future in “hopes” of Powerfully and Efficiently conquering our nation’s problems once and for all!
C.H.U.M.P. – Childish
Hypocritical Unprofessionally
Mean Person
Mixed Media: Black & White Collage Prints, Silk Fabric,
Craft Butterflies and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2017
After America has been constantly falling victim to the daily wrath of #45, Sethemba realizes that he must call upon his swallowtail butterfly gang! He duplicates himself into a squad of swallowtail butterflies who are swift and bear the incredible power of inhibition reflex (increased muscle strength). Together, they unleash a Highly Optimistic and Powerfully Efficient attack on #45 to permanently remove him from Presidency in “hopes” that he will become impeached and disqualified from running for office ever again!
S.W.A.G. – Saving Women
and Girls
Mixed Media: Black &
White Collage Prints,
Synthetic Hair and
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2017
After unleashing an aerial attack against #45 with his swallowtail butterfly squad, Sethemba realized his full potential and ability to #LevelUp! He augments himself into a supernatural, larger than life butterfly, and goes out on a quest to locate and rescue our missing, “Highly Optimistic and Powerfully Efficient” women and girls! She was lost, but now she’s found. She may have been a victim of domestic violence, neglect, abuse, depression or anxiety… but she is home and she is “hope”!
W.O.K.E. – When Our Kids
Elevate
Mixed Media: Black &
White Collage Prints, Gold
Leaf, Acrylic Rhinestones
and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2018
Using his ultrasonic hearing, Sethemba hears multiple gunshots nearby. He travels towards the source of the sound and is horrified to hear more gunshots coming from a different direction. He soon discovers that these shots were fired within several school campuses. Appalled by this scenario, Sethemba feels the need to bring gun control to these out-of-control individuals who need to learn self-control! Because he strongly believes that schools should be a safe-haven for youth and young adults to LEARN and not fear for their lives, Sethemba visits each accessible school to remove ALL guns visible in sight. It is his “hope” that the removal of these guns would reset the cognitive capacity of those who may be negatively impacted by the mere sight of a firearm.
J.O.Y. – Jubilation Oppresses
Yearning
Mixed Media: Gold Leaf, Glitter and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2018
Sethemba realizes that there are several under addressed issues within communities of color that are considered taboo. He believes that people with issues such as mental health, suicide, depression, anxiety and other related health disorders should receive early and effective interventions. Therefore, Sethemba decides to target any affected youth within these communities to let them know that they can “rise above” the stigmas and that they no longer have to suffer in silence. No matter what health issues you or anyone may be experiencing, Sethemba wants you to know that you are NOT alone, and that getting support isn’t a sign of weakness, but a sign of COURAGE and STRENGTH!
H.2.O. – Hard 2 find
Omnipotence
from the cover of the 2021 release of “Hard to Find God in DC” by
author Richard Johnson
Mixed Media: Black & White Collage Prints, Gold Leaf, Silk Flowers,
Burlap Fabric and Acrylic on Canvas
36 x 48
2018
SETHEMBA encounters Rich, a southern transplant to D.C. who seems to find living for Christ a challenge having being constantly plagued by all the current distractions of the District of Columbia (human rights, justice system reform, Black Lives Matter movement, income inequality, gentrification, etc.)
P.O.I.S.E. (Perfectly Operating
In Sustained Elegance)
inspired by Gayle King interview with Robert Kelly
Mixed Media: Gold Leaf, Glitter and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2019
The powerful juxtaposition between the two figures—Gayle sitting down and visibly composed, while Kelly is standing, his hands wildly flying in the air — in my opinion, signifies a much deeper issue. The gender dynamics captured in this moment serve as a depiction of what many women —specifically women of color— tend to experience in this society.
When threatened or even mildly challenged, an abuser typically responds by screaming, blaming, and physically escalating until one regains control. This type of behavior can be deemed disrespectful, especially to women who are constantly dismissed because they are deemed too emotional and hysterical. But, in this moment, the joke is on Kelly! Because, Gayle King — a powerful woman with much #CLOUT — sits face forward with her legs crossed, UNBOTHERED and maintains her poise and class, while Sethemba hovers directly in front of Kelly, arms folded and not feeling threatened one bit!
Meanwhile, depictions of other powerful women of color who have made history (to include Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Nina Simone, Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama) are pictured in a frame behind the two figures, appearing to show their approval for Gayle.
B.G. - Black Godfather
Mixed Media: Gold Leaf, Glitter and Acrylic
Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2019
Clarence Avant, also known as The Black Godfather, is perhaps one of the most powerful and renowned people within the entertainment industry whom is essentially responsible for the rise of black American culture within various imprints of entertainment, from music to TV and film and sports, as well as politics. It was his counseling and business savvy tactics that redefined entertainment for people of color long before they had a voice in the industry, and he remains a figure that Hollywood's elite continues to lean on for sound advice and mentorship.
Avant is highly regarded for launching the careers of many and helping white corporations like MGM and ABC learn how to deal and make room for black American culture, and he's managed to do it all while remaining completely behind the scenes.
In the attempt to be part of the revolution, Sethemba seeks out Mr. Avant and becomes sucked up in a vortex that draws him into The Black Godfather’s palm. It is Sethemba’s desire that becoming directly connected to The Black Godfather would ensure him success in an effort to push the culture forward.
N.K.J.V. (New King James
Version)
inspired by photo of LeBron and Savannah James by
photographer Joe Robbins
Mixed Media: Gold Leaf, Glitter and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2020
NEW King James Version was inspired by the picture taken by photographer Joe Robbins that captures the reaction of Savannah and LeBron James, as she clutches her husband while watching their son Bronny play basketball in their native Ohio.
The couple both wear #Crowns to exemplify their royalty, and Savannah is adorned in African fabric, which serves as a symbol of elegance, class, and an allegiance to cultural roots.
LeBron wears a hoodie that features Kobe Bryant’s long-standing number “24” and contains the scripture from 2 Corinthians 8:24 (New King James Version) that reads, “Therefore show to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf.” This scripture represents Kobe’s legacy of being the only player in NBA history to have 2 numbers, No. 8 and No. 24. The scripture itself serves as a remembrance of “King” Kobe’s legacy and as a reminder for “King” James to continue his great works as a phenomenal NBA player, businessman, husband, father and mentor.
One Legend is standing and one Legend has fallen; however, #Kings NEVER die. Their Legacy is ALIVE and will continue to LIVE on!
C.O.V.I.D.19. – Christ Over
Viruses and Infectious
Diseases, Joshua 1.9
Mixed Media: Resin, Broken Glass, Glitter and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2020
The entire WORLD is on PAUSE. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused global social and economic disruption, including a worldwide recession, postponement and cancellation of events, school closures, widespread supply shortages, and more. In addition, recent events surrounding police brutality and injustice have sparked mass protests, marches and mayhem, which could lead to a second wave of COVID-19 infections. Enough is ENOUGH!
Plagued by the uncertainties of the return to normalcy, a highly distraught and energetic Sethemba feels compelled to focus his energy into transforming himself into an all-powerful, omniscient being. In mid-transformation, he forms a robustly stimulating Rasengan (spiraling sphere, reminiscent of the planet Earth) that is capable of evoking internal and external healing, restoring faith and unity, and completely obliterating all diseases and destruction. Without hesitation, he unleashes this spinning ball into the universe, so that anyone in its trajectory will be fully and completely cured upon impact by its powerful healing force.
K.I.N.G. (Keeping Ignorant
Nationalities Governed)
Mixed Media: Resin, Fabric, Glitter, and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
48 x 60
2020
Say their names: George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade, Dion Johnson, Elijah McClain and many countless others. The world is in an uproar as the nation repeatedly witnesses evidence of White police killing unarmed Black people over and over again. As the Black Lives Matter movement continues to fight for justice, healing and freedom to Black people across the globe, the demand for long-term change seems almost impossible.
Sethemba decides to teleport into the 14th century and encounters Mansa Musa, who was the first African ruler to be widely known throughout Europe and the Middle East, and is regarded as the wealthiest person to have EVER lived (his wealth greatly surpassing ANYONE today). He was the tenth Mansa (which translates to “sultan”, “conqueror” or “emperor”) of the Mali Empire and in this painting, he takes the throne as the “King of Hearts”, which signifies personal qualities of a kind-hearted and fair man.
This encounter baffles Sethemba, considering the richest man in the world (who was also kind, honest and spiritual) was a Black man; however, in today’s society, the Black man is often stereotyped by police and many Americans as being underprivileged, incompetent and threatening. Sethemba immediately realizes that he MUST flash forward into the future and begin a campaign to change this false narrative once and for all!
A.L.I. – A Lamentable Intercept
Mixed Media: Glitter and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2020
“Float like a BUTTERFLY, sting like a bee! His hands can’t hit what his eyes can’t see!” - These words were once spoken by the late, great Muhammad Ali who is considered by most to be the greatest heavyweight boxer at all time. Throughout his entire career, he only lost one fight by knockout, and he was able to dazzle fans with wins over a multitude of greats, including heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston (pictured in this Cary Michael rendition of a renowned pop culture image captured by Sports Illustrated photographer Neil Leifer).
Plagued by the uncertainty of today’s tumultuous economic and racial climate, #Sethemba (pictured hovering above Ali) decided to “float like a butterfly” back in time to gain inspiration from this boxing legend. #Sethemba meets a highly energetic Ali towering over his vanquished opponent, Sonny Liston. In this historic moment, Ali radiates the strength and poetic brashness that was needed at a time where sports, politics and popular culture were being severely dilapidated.
Well, they always say “history repeats itself,” as this story seems to be reiterated today in a “new normal” that consists of canceled festivals, concerts and sporting events, economic turmoil, political pandemonium, and more. #Sethemba “floats” back to present-day society to encourage us that no matter the battle, we must realize that we have the perfect combination of strength, agility, endurance, efficiency and faith to fight and win victoriously! Therefore, FIGHT like a BUTTERFLY and STING like #SETHEMBA in EVERY given circumstance!
S.F.C – Sethemba for Change
Mixed Media: Acrylic Paint, Glitter & Gold Leaf on Canvas
36 x 48
2021
Sethemba makes a rare forefront appearance as he emerges from the scene of an explosion aftermath. He just completed a rescue mission and now knows he has been summoned to Inspire Change in the new year of 2022. The painting includes a collage of words/phrases (provided by passersby during the November 29th, 2021 Washington Football Team hgame) in the surrounding background that describe what positive changes are necessary to truly inspire change in 2022.
W.E.– Worldwide Embrace
Mixed Media: Glitter, Synthetic Hair, Jewelry and
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
48 x 60
2022
While operating in their purpose, Sethemba and Yemaya encounter each other atop a mountain, overlooking the world surrounding them. They size each other up skeptically, then instantly realize that they MUST have crossed paths for a reason. Their souls immediately draw together, and as the energy from the sun and the moon both collide, they embrace each other with a kiss symbolizing true love. Filled with agape and emotions, they enter an agreement that they will have an unwavering, unbreakable and unparalleled devotion for each other, as well as unconditional love for mankind. No longer do they have to navigate life alone, so together, they proceed to tackle life as one!
W.R.A.T.H. – When Rage Anguishes the Humankind
Mixed Media: Aluminum Link Chain, Nails, Black and White Collage Prints and
Acrylic Paint on Canvas
36 x 48
2022
There are so many inner challenges that we as men of Color face on a day to day. With all the burdens we carry from the pressures of the world, ourselves and from other people, life can become overwhelming and if pushed to the limit, we can reach our ultimate breaking point. However, no matter how hard life gets, we have to adapt the MAMBA mentality and make our mental health a top tier priority. We must realize that the devil will tempt us at our highest moments, so we must watch, pray and be careful so that we don’t fall into temptation. The flesh may be weak, but the spirit everlastingly willing and able!
C.O.L.I.N. (Can't Oppress a Liberated Independent Nationalist)
Mixed Media Acrylic on Canvas
36 x 48
2022
Every Black American doesn’t have the same story. Some grew up in the lower and working classes, while some grew up in middle or upper classes. There are also instances in which some Black Americans experience not being dark-complected enough to be #Accepted in society, and other instances where some Black Americans experience not being light-completed enough to be #Accepted in society. As a result, people who experience this type of discrimination (whether within their own or another racial group) can sometimes be led to feel less-than, inadequate, or #Unacceptable in the realities they face, no matter how qualified they actually are or no matter how much excellence they exude.
.
However, we are ALL #Acceptable and have a unique and different upbringing, which makes our stories truly inspiring. C.O.L.I.N. (Can’t Oppress a Liberated Independent Nationalist), artwork by Cary Michael, was inspired by the Netflix series “Black & White” which details the life of American activist Colin Kaepernick who grew up in an adopted family, and grew to embrace his individuality. In the series, Colin addresses the #AcceptableNegro (archetype black characters, including social outcasts who assimilate and conform to make others feel comfortable), the despicable names he’s been referred to (race-bait, freak, anomaly, etc), and explains how “ever since the day he was born, he’s NEVER been anybody’s first choice.”
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While I can relate to quite a few of these instances, I want to challenge everyone who has ever felt like they always have to do more than enough to still feel less-than and just to get halfway acknowledged/considered, and whom always feel as if they constantly tend to get the short end of the stick (in relationships, friendships, professional endeavors, etc.) you ARE #Acceptable… you MATTER and YOUR story MATTERS.
C.R.A.C.K.E.R. (Channeling Racism Against Colored Kin, Except Reversed)
Mixed Media: Aluminum Link Chain, Cotton Fabric, Glitter, Gold Leaf, Black and White Collage Prints and Acrylic Paint on Canvas
30 x 40
2023
This body of work explores “what if?” scenarios, and aims to dissect a day in the life of an average African American and create a universe where Black Americans serve as the "default" face of government, police, oatmeal, and Christ, and where White Americans are degraded and targeted across every aspect of their life. What if the roles were reversed and White Americans had to constantly proclaim (daily) that their lives mattered? What if White Americans had to constantly give “the talk” to their young boys about how to conduct themselves in public and when in contact with law enforcement? What if hair billboards, commercials and products constantly promoted “Kinky” hair as the default hairstyle for women? (… & the list goes on)
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Consequently, it is Sethemba’s hope that after witnessing these inversions, non-Black Americans would soon be able to look racism squarely in the face and can envision more clearly, an accurate portrayal of the grief, remorse and outlook on the life that many African Americans face on a daily basis.
Appendix
Cary Michael’s 2022 Sethemba Showcase
SETHEMBA: MAN OF TOMORROW PLAYLIST
Enjoy this complimentary Sethemba: Man of Tomorrow Custom Playlist on Apple Music
SETHEMBA: Man of tomorrow
Self-Guided Painting Tutorial
Cary Michael’s 2018 Sethemba Showcase
A promo video of the SETHEMBA: Man of Tomorrow visual arts showcase, held on March 10, 2018.
