![Solve for X](http://next-stage-press.myshopify.com/cdn/shop/products/SolveforX_{width}x.jpg?v=1623275129)
2015. The 50th anniversary year of the assassination of Malcolm X. Nicholas, an artist from southwest Asia, comes to visit an American painter, Roland Sheppherd, one of the few living contemporaries of the slain human rights leader. Growing up Nicholas was exposed to speeches of Malcolm X but he has his own complicated reasons for wanting to know Malcolm, the man. Roland gives Nicholas access to his photographic research of Malcolm and instructs him how to see as a painter sees. Trapped in Roland’s studio due to a horrible storm, Nicholas paints throughout the night, opening portals into life events that teach us about Malcolm, the man. All of who he was. All of what he carried on his shoulders. And, all of the love he had for a people- his people, is explored as Nicholas excavates the personal and public life of brother Malcolm. Solve for X.