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Salzburg Global Fellow Manuela Engelbert reflects on how art has empowered her to explore questions of racial identity
This op-ed was written by Manuela Engelbert, who attended the Public Policy New Voices Europe program "Advancing Together: Empowering Diverse Leadership in Public Policy" in Salzburg from September 24 to 28, 2023.
Reflecting on my stay in Salzburg for the Public Policy New Voices Europe in-person program last year, I had the opportunity to share my thoughts on race and equality through artistic expression. It would not be an exaggeration to label this as a life-changing experience.
The effects of colonialism extend far and deep, intricately woven into the very fabric of our contemporary societies. When contemplating the concept of racial identity, I am often reminded of a poignant statement by poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou: "Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future, and renders the present inaccessible."
This truth is a constant reality faced by individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Regardless of whether one perceives race as a solely biological reality, a social construct, or a combination of both, it is undeniable that it significantly shapes the human experience.
By societal standards, there is an imperative for migrants and their descendants to assimilate or acculturate into societal norms. Contrary to the prevailing societal belief that migrants struggle to acculturate, I believe that migration results in the erosion of cultural identity and traditions across generations.
Growing up as the daughter of immigrants in Germany, I struggled daily with the challenge of defining my racial and cultural identity. I found myself in a position where ethnically I couldn't identify as German, yet I was deemed too European by my peers to fully embrace my African heritage. I consistently sensed a significant gap between my identity and African heritage, which left me unable to be fully accepted for who I am. While endeavoring to embrace my cultural roots, I also struggled with the harmful misconception within my community that individuals with fair skin deserve greater privileges.
The question loomed: should I navigate the space in between or simply choose one side? Such thoughts frequently occupied my mind throughout my formative years. These thoughts needed a dwelling place, and I found solace in art. I have always had a deep appreciation for the rich and vibrant tones and textures of artistic expression. Instead of using written words, I felt that this provided me with a medium to more effectively express my emotions.
I frequently discovered myself attempting to negotiate my own racial identity, in hopes that it might afford me certain privileges granted to individuals with lighter skin tones. Despite these efforts, I was not exempt from stereotypes, colorism, and the policing of my hair. Over time, I came to the realization that, no matter how much I tried to conform to societal norms, I would always be different. This significantly undermined my self-worth and distorted my sense of identity. These frustrations motivated me to convey my internal struggles through art.
During my high school years, I had the opportunity to explore this part of myself through art, depicting my reality. Margaret Bowland, an American artist recognized for her grand style of painting that explores the preconceptions of beauty and societal prejudices, became my main source of inspiration. Captivated by Bowland's pieces and their resonant narratives, I began recreating art that reflected my own experiences and reality. My art illustrated the concept that individuals of color frequently feel compelled to adhere to societal norms to assimilate. It also reflected generations of suffering and oppression, resulting in the loss of countless lives.
Showcasing my art during Salzburg Global’s Fellow-led open space gave me a platform to openly and vulnerably discuss my lived experience and how I use art as a means of self-expression. I was surprised to discover that my art resonated with others. This realization reminded me of the immense power that art possesses and reinforced the importance of not neglecting this integral part of myself.
There isn't a straightforward answer, but it is crucial to address the detrimental effects of racism and colorism on racial identity.
One approach to tackling these issues involves utilizing social privilege to counter harmful stereotypes by breaking down barriers through advocacy and allyship. Additionally, promoting diversity in senior positions, particularly within the corporate sector and media, plays a pivotal role in inspiring the younger generation. We must not underestimate the impact that witnessing individuals of color in influential positions holds in emphasizing the importance of embracing one's skin color.
Distancing ourselves from Eurocentric ideals of beauty and instead challenging these standards by promoting individuality within the media is also imperative.
While my personal experience may not be unique, it emphasizes that the evolution of racial identity is a multidimensional and diverse experience that has the ability to shape us. Art, with its ability to transcend barriers, therefore becomes a powerful tool in narrating stories like mine - and should not be underestimated in its capacity to bring about change.
Manuela Engelbert is a public health officer working in the field of health protection at Birmingham City Council. She is a Fellow of Salzburg Global’s Public Policy New Voices Europe Fellowship cohort 2.
Public Policy New Voices Europe connects, supports, and empowers a new generation of diverse leaders in public policy across Europe. This dynamic year-long fellowship program seeks to address the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and emerging leaders in the public policy arena by providing a platform for support, mentorship, networking and skill-building. connects, supports, and empowers a new generation of diverse leaders in public policy across Europe. This dynamic year-long fellowship program seeks to address the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and emerging leaders in the public policy arena by providing a platform for support, mentorship, networking, and skill-building.
*Disclaimer: The showcased artworks in this article derive significant inspiration from and are reinterpretations of pieces by the American Artist Margaret Bowland. All the artistic creations featured in this article are under the copyright of Manuela Engelbert. All rights reserved. You may not copy, reproduce, modify, republish, transmit or distribute any material from this article without written permission.