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In the visual arts, there is a concept called chiaroscuro. It refers to the effect of the contrast between light and dark to define shapes and objects. If you can, visualize with me a painting of a singular vase near an open evening window with the light and shadows falling on and around the vase to give it form and substance. Chiaroscuro creates both drama and depth in the artwork. The famous Italian Baroque artist, Caravaggio, was well-known for using chiaroscuro in his later works, using shadows and beams of light to enhance the storyline of his paintings, like The Calling of Saint Matthew. In chiaroscuro, the dark gives dimension and definition to the light while the light brings depth and clarity to the dark, as seen in Caravaggio’s masterpiece. These bold contrasts affect the entire composition. It is 1990, and my mom is jubilant. She unpacks the groceries and holds up a tin can in victory. There is a blonde boy pictured on the front, with Arabic writing next to his smiling face.

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