ARTIST STATEMENT
ARTIST STATEMENT
My work centers the experiences of Black women. I create narratives using symbolism that is primarily based on historical references, societal standards, and cultural norms. My goal is to depict the duality between the appreciation of black culture paired with the harmful impact of white supremacy. In my paintings, I illustrate another rendition of racist minstrel characters who were popular in the early 1900s. Their presence serves to act as eerie existences who shadows merely blend in with the subjects in my work. Like these minstrel characters, the ism’s like racism, and colorism tend to follow us throughout every aspect of our lives. However, it's crucial that I honor and highlight the beauty of my subject. The intention of my work is to challenge Western beauty standards that have historically excluded Black beauty.
I aim to develop a vision of Black women. I paint the skin blue to express beauty and reveal the eyes to express identity. Painting Black female figures blue emphasizes the importance of these Black women, while also creating a narrative through visual representations that brings interest and excitement. I choose to use decorative/ floral imagery to help extend this narrative. My work consists of layering shapes, colors, and figures. I'm interested in introducing various textures and dimensions in order to make my practice more dynamic.
I utilize a non traditional method of painting that allows me to view each 2d/3d form as an assemblage of stories. The process in which I produce work starts with clear material choices including acrylic paint, textured mediums, sculpting, fibers, polymer clay, illustration, and zine-making. It’s important that I communicate a sense of humanity and storytelling through my artwork.