“A Time of Reflection/Rites of Passage” depicts the African system of human development based on the principle that one becomes human through nurturing, love and teaching. For every stage of life achieved, there is a rite or ritual to celebrate this milestone. With each phase of human development, honored teachers pass on the secrets and wisdom of their experience.

Richard Thomas’ charcoal and acrylic painting on canvas shows us that our teachers may originate from many sources, from history and politics to religion and family. Through overlapping images depicting live, history and knowledge that flow together like a dream, Thomas has reduced the journey of a lifetime into the thoughts of one young adolescent, reflecting on his growth.