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Charles White is considered one of the most well-known artists in African American art history. White was known for his chronicling of African American related subjects in paintings, drawings, and lithographs. He was committed to creating powerful images of African Americans, what he described as “images of dignity.” His lifelong commitment was to shed light on the triumphs and struggles of his community. White believed that art was meant to change the world and he tried to do that with every piece he created. Pope X showcases his efforts to highlight his community and represents what he stood for. In this print, we see a Black pope with his head tilted towards the sky. There has never been documentation of there being a Black pope within the Catholic Church, so this image is aspirational or fantastical, giving a Black man the power and prestige of such a religious leader. This piece demonstrates White's will to break down barriers with his art.