The speaker reflects on their struggles with sculpture at the University of California, Berkeley, realizing that talent requires dedication and practice. They share experiences studying African history, contemplating a house purchase in Ghana, and observing the country's changes over time. The chapter delves into the speaker's journey from academic interests to visual storytelling, inspired by figures like Sojourner Truth and historical black artists.
Throughout her prolific writing career, Nell Irvin Painter has published works on such luminaries as Sojourner Truth, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Malcolm X. Her unique vantage on American history pushes the boundaries of personal narrative and academic authorship and asks readers to reconsider ideas of race, politics, and identity. She joins to discuss her legendary career as a distinguished historian, award-winning author, and artist.