Annabelle Araya is a first-generation Eritrean whose parents and descendants fought for freedom to come to America. Araya continuously reads, writes, and studies societal endeavors in America. Her art is primarily based on African American history. Araya became an artist because she was intrigued by the idea of the images in her mind coming to life. She has hands-on experience with many mixed mediums such as textiles, murals, and portraits. These mediums defined her style as she progressed as an artist. When Araya lost her father, she turned to the art world because it gave her freedom to express her connection to him through her art—as if they were having a conversation together through her work.

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