The American Collection #4: Jo Baker’s Bananas, by Faith Ringgold, connects art to politics and music. Later in her career, Ringgold transformed her work into storytelling with elaborate fabric. Acrylic on canvas with pieces of fabric on the sides makes this artwork unique. Both Baker and Ringgold made powerful statements of equality. Josephine Baker's banana skirt challenged colonial history through her dance. Her bananas became a statement for beauty and racial equality. In this work Ringgold honors Baker. Ringgold's American collection series transforms American history into her own statement. 

Politically, Ringgold educates whites about black culture. The jungle-like prints in the background reminds Americans about colonization throughout history. Ringgold creates movement and energy by painting Baker in different poses. Ringgold uses bold colors to outline her work. The fabric on the edges compliments the acrylics. Immediately, I am drawn to the intense and intricate designs, giving me an overwhelming sensation of energy and color.

Ringgold displays high-class citizens listening to jazz on the bottom half of her art. Ringgold includes racial diversity. While looking at this artwork, I hear jazz music. Baker’s movement and the jazz players in the background gives me a sensation of jazz tunes. Connecting jazz and art teaches me about culture and American ways of life. Jazz music and dance is an important aspect of black history. Ringgold beautifully pays tribute to Josephine Baker by telling the story of black jazz.