Dr. Claud Anderson
About the Artist
Nigel Kabiro is an 18-year-old college student at San Diego State University in California. Born on April 14, 2006, to loving parents Sharmain Campbell and Paul Wambugu, Nigel grew up in Montclair, CA, with his dear sister Symah. Most of his passions and fond memories stem from his childhood home, where he created fruit smoothies from recipes given by his kindergarten teacher with his mother and rode his beloved but time-nicked black Razor scooter throughout Shark Park.
During his childhood, Nigel's grandmother and mother would take him to The African American Museum of Beginnings in Pomona, where he would meet many knowledgeable elders and move towards a closer connection with his culture. These formative experiences at TAAMB helped shape his understanding of African American history and laid the foundation for his artistic expression through textile portraiture.
Now as a college student, Nigel continues to honor the cultural education he received at TAAMB by creating meaningful fabric art that celebrates influential figures in Black history and empowerment.
About the Subject
Dr. Claud Anderson is a renowned economist, political figure, author, and one of the shining jewels in the current crown of active Black empowerment. He has held impressive roles both federally and as an entrepreneur, owning a residential construction company, retail food outlets, radio stations, and operating extensive seafood production facilities.
As president of PowerNomics Corporation of America, Inc. and The Harvest Institute, Inc., Dr. Anderson spreads his concept of "PowerNomics"—principles explaining the underlying messages behind the idea of "race" and creating economic self-reliance within Black communities. President Jimmy Carter appointed him as Assistant Secretary in the U.S. Department of Commerce, where he chaired a commission funding economic development activities for governors.
Dr. Anderson has authored five influential books, including "PowerNomics: The National Plan to Empower Black America" and "Black Labor, White Wealth: The Search for Power and Economic Justice." His work addresses how Black people have been kept systemically in an economic underclass and presents strategies for Black economic empowerment through industries where Black dominance is apparent, such as athletics and music.
About the Artwork
This stunning textile portrait demonstrates Nigel's sophisticated understanding of fabric art techniques, featuring intricate details, beautiful blue tones, and remarkable craftsmanship. The portrait captures Dr. Anderson's dignified presence while showcasing the artist's developing mastery of textile portraiture learned through his experiences at The African American Museum of Beginnings.
The choice to honor Dr. Claud Anderson reflects Nigel's deep appreciation for leaders in Black empowerment and economic justice. This artwork bridges Nigel's cultural education at TAAMB with his contemporary college experience, creating a meaningful tribute to a figure whose PowerNomics principles continue to inspire economic self-reliance and empowerment in Black communities. The portrait stands as both artistic achievement and educational tool, embodying the museum's mission to connect youth with transformative Black history.