New York-based Mickalene Thomas – who is known for her elaborate rhinestone-adorned paintings, including those of African American women who romanticize power and femininity, and whose practice also includes sculpture, printmaking, photography and video, with her work included in such institutions as the Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim – plumbs her own psychological depths only to discover what makes her love work and life.
What historical art figure would you like to have lunch with and why? If I could have lunch with any historical figure, I would choose Pauline ‘Pauli’ Murray, a trailblazing nonbinary poet, activist, theorist, and Episcopal priest. I’m deeply curious about their experiences navigating the challenges of their time, as they courageously pushed boundaries in their advocacy for gender identity and civil rights. I would love to hear about any moments of isolation they faced and how they maintained their steadfast focus on becoming a true multihyphenate. Murray’s remarkable life and achievements continue to inspire me, and I believe that sitting down with them would be an unforgettable experience.
Afro Goddess Looking Forward, 2015 Rhinestones, acrylic, and oil on wood panel 60 x 96 x 2 in. © Mickalene Thomas
What did you purchase with the proceeds from your first sale? Though the details are hazy, I recall using the funds for essential expenses. The proceeds went towards necessities like rent, art supplies, and groceries – nothing frivolous. It was a practical investment in my daily life and creative pursuits.
What words or phrases do you use? I’ve noticed that I often use ‘sort of’ as a verbal pause or a moment to collect my thoughts. My speaking coach pointed out this habit, and I’ve started tapping myself to become more mindful of it. This self-awareness helps me communicate more effectively and avoid filler words.
Din avec la main dans le miroir et jupe rouge, 2023 Rhinestones, acrylic and glitter on canvas mounted on wood panel 90 x 110 in. © Mickalene Thomas
How do you know when a work is finished? I know a piece is complete when it embodies the energy I envision – a symphony of emotions that resonates deep within me. Compositionally and formally, all elements harmonize, yielding a balance of contrasts: invigorating yet mysterious, unsettling yet captivating. When I feel a hint of vulnerability, a smile, and a spark of excitement, I know I’ve succeeded. The work provokes an indescribable response, a gut feeling that it’s working. Interestingly, sometimes ‘unfinished’ is actually ‘finished.’ I rarely revisit a painting until I intuitively sense the precise gesture needed to complete it.
May 1975 Redux, 2022 Rhinestones and acrylic paint on canvas, mounted on wood panel with stained red mahogany frame 74 x 62 in. © Mickalene Thomas
When and where were you happiest? I am happiest when I walk the streets of New York City at night. More specifically, when I am walking across the Brooklyn Bridge on a summer night. It’s not too hot, and there’s a beautiful breeze. The view of both cities is spectacular.
What is your most treasured possession? As a Buddhist, my most cherished possession is my altar, a sacred space where I meditate and connect with my inner self. It’s a constant companion, traveling with me to every home I’ve lived in, providing a sense of continuity and comfort. My altar within my Buddhist practice is my sanctuary, a refuge where I find peace and solace.
Monet’s Salle a Manger Jaune, 2012 Rhinestones, acrylic, oil and enamel on wood panel 108 x 144 in. © Mickalene Thomas
Where is your ideal escape destination? I’m still searching for my ideal escape destination, a place that embodies my vision of serenity. Although I once created such a haven, it’s no longer accessible. I’m now on a journey to rediscover and recreate my perfect retreat, trusting that I’ll manifest it once again.
What’s the worst survival job you’ve ever had? I wouldn’t say it’s the worst, because I respect the profession and the people that do it day in and day out, but one of the most tedious menial jobs I had was being a house cleaner for a couple of years. It takes an extremely strong person to go into people’s homes and see how indecent some keep their living spaces. It will definitely transform perspective on people and your own life. Despite, how nasty some of the places were, the pay was good and it was beneficial because I worked for myself, made my own hours and decided my own workload.
Portrait of Maya #10, 2017 Rhinestones and acrylic paint on canvas mounted wood panel 96 x 84 in. © Mickalene Thomas
What TV series from your youth best describes your approach to life? “A Different World,” the iconic American sitcom, ignited my enthusiasm for college life and fostered a deep desire to attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). The show’s portrayal of community, camaraderie, and shared experiences among young Black students resonated profoundly with me. Although I ultimately didn’t attend an HBCU, the show’s influence lingered. In fact, if I had continued pursuing cross-country and track and field, I likely would have pursued an opportunity at an HBCU.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I love it just the way it is, but I wish it were thicker! I’m happy with the texture, style, and everything else, I just desire a fuller mane.
What is your most treasured memory? One of my most treasured memories is going fishing with my grandfather in Camden, New Jersey. He taught me how to fish. I loved the drive down to the Cooper Riverpark. I remember first being scared and grossed out by the sliminess of hooking the worm and holding a wiggling fish. I remember being so happy that I was contributing to the meal we ate together later in the day. After several outings, the tasks that I was first grossed out by didn’t bother me anymore. It serves as a reminder that things you at first might have some aversion to you may end up loving.
What makes you smile? When you have faith in something not knowing whether it is going to happen because it is so far reaching but because your faith is so strong you believe in it and when it becomes true you just can’t help but smile to yourself. Life is abundant and when you believe you can manifest it. The idea, the faith in the idea, and it manifesting is what makes me smile, and the smile is not for anyone else but you. Smiling for yourself is key. Faith actualized is an ephemeral feeling, being able to recognize and visualize your desire coming to you is empowering.
A Little Taste Outside of Love, 2007 Rhinestones, acrylic, and enamel on wood panel 108 x 144 in. © Mickalene Thomas
What makes you cry? When I know that someone close to me has been mistreated in the most horrific way by someone else that was also once close to them. Even though I am not very sensitive I am empathetic to others so their pain and suffering does not go unnoticed.
What is your go-to drink when you toast to a sale? I don’t toast to sales or mere achievements; I toast to the triumph of bringing a passion project to life through dedication and perseverance. I raise my glass to the accomplishment itself, to the tireless efforts of my team, and to the satisfaction of seeing our hard work meet my high standards. I toast to the journey, not just the destination – to the late nights, early mornings, and unwavering commitment that made it all possible. I toast to the work that was put in, not the reward.
Resist #11: A Price to Pay, 2023 Rhinestones, acrylic and oil on canvas mounted on wood panel 84 x 108 in. © Mickalene Thomas
After an all-nighter, what’s your breakfast of champions? I don’t really eat breakfast anymore as I no longer crave breakfast in the morning time, but if I were to eat breakfast, it’s usually a hearty homemade oatmeal dish. I like my oatmeal savory, not sweet. So, the dish would be oatmeal, nice and creamy, with pumpkin seeds with slices of coconut, and some flaxseeds. I also love a big bowl of papaya with a sprinkle of fresh squeezed lemon and lime juices with chopped up pistachios. Also love an heirloom tomato sliced or avocado with sprinkles of flaked sea salt and olive oil.
Who inspires you? Lately, I’ve been drawing inspiration from three remarkable women: Bethann Hardison, Nona Hendryx, and Pat Steir. Nona, in particular, is a force to be reckoned with – an experimental artist, composer, writer, and performer who continues to defy age and convention. I regard her as a genius and a shapeshifter, constantly reinventing herself. Her boundless energy and resilience are a testament to her spirit, and I aspire to emulate her vitality and creativity. Bethann is a tireless advocate and activist who has paved the way for black women in fashion and modeling, consistently creating opportunities and challenging the status quo. Pat, meanwhile, remains a dedicated artist, still actively painting in her studio. What I admire most about these women is their youthful mindset, their continued passion for their work, and their unwavering commitment to their craft. They embody the kind of person I strive to be – engaged, innovative, and unapologetically themselves.
Installation view, Mickalene Thomas: All About Love, The Broad, photo courtesy Joshua White
What’s your best quality? I would say my best quality is that I don’t give a expletive. I just do what I want and I don’t care what people think of me. I walk into spaces and I own who I am unapologetically about who Mickalene is. There is no pretense.
What’s your biggest flaw? I have a tendency to be overly generous, often giving people multiple chances even when they haven’t earned them. My willingness to see the best in others and offer second chances can sometimes lead me to overlook red flags or enable harmful behavior.
What is your current state of mind? My current state of mind is one of purity, peace, and love. As I navigate a period of transition and growth, I’m learning to accept others for who they are and tap into my inner strength and spiritual enlightenment. Prioritizing health and centeredness is crucial for me right now. Self-care is non-negotiable, and setting boundaries is essential to maintaining my focus and alignment with my mission and vision. I believe that authenticity is key, and I strive to inspire others through my actions rather than just my words. By showing up as my true self and treating others with kindness and compassion, I aim to make a positive impact.
This is Where I Came In, 2006 Rhinestones, acrylic, and enamel on wood panel 72 x 60 in. © Mickalene Thomas
What do you consider your greatest achievement? Professionally, I’m thrilled that my touring show, “All About Love,” [was] on display at The Broad and will soon be heading to The Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, followed by the Hayward in London and Les Abattoirs in France. However, on a more personal level, my greatest accomplishment is the incredible relationship I share with my daughter. I cherish the fact that our bond continues to grow stronger, and she actively seeks my guidance, values my opinions, and trusts me implicitly. Witnessing her growth and fostering a deep, meaningful connection with her brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what would it be? Myself! If given the chance to reincarnate, I would choose to come back as myself, Mickalene. Rather than starting from scratch as someone new, I’d opt for a reset, transformative, and enlightened experience as the same person. I’m content with my ethnicity, height, gender, and personality, and I wouldn’t want to change a thing. Instead, I’d leverage my accumulated knowledge and insights to become an even more fabulous and unstoppable version of myself. With a deeper understanding of the world and its opportunities, I’d know exactly how to navigate life’s challenges, surround myself with the right people, and share my love and energy with those who matter most.
Cover image: Mickalene Thomas, photo by Francois Dischinger.
Visit the artist at her website, on Instagram and Facebook.
