Artist Statement

My work as an artist is inspired by the Black American experience, referencing symbols and iconography presented throughout various media. Depicted through a wide range of art mediums like painting, drawing, and ceramics, the utilization of the figure, landscape, and motifs in the work creates visual storytelling of triumph and resistance. I use themes of reclaiming identity and unapologetically expressing my culture. In previous work, I examined a long history of dehumanizing, exaggerated, and obscured world views of Black Americans, with the intention to deconstruct the meaning and purpose behind the media and memorabilia’s creation.  

In current work, the use of embellishment—through garments, jewelry, and expressive hairstyles—draws heavily from the rich traditions of West African cultures and Black American fashion. These adornments are far more than stylistic choices; they carry deep historical emphasis and meaning, transcending time and geography. Each textile, accessory, and design detail serves as a testament to identity, resistance, and artistic innovation. These forms of dress not only reflect the present but also envision the future, acting as powerful symbols of continuity and transformation. No matter where we are in the world, our roots remain with us. The customs and celebrations of the African diaspora live on—often unconsciously—in how we present ourselves. Our clothing is worn with pride, intention, and authority, serving as both personal expression and cultural declaration. 

The work challenges how blackness can remove its existence from social and political commentary and lenses. Animals originating from both Africa and North America are used as motifs of empowerment and symbols of Black American and Diaspora experience living in 21st-century America and our fight against entities that are exploitative, leading to the detriment of the community. Various animals like the African Elephants, Western black Rhinos, Nile Crocodiles, Water buffalo, and Black Panthers hold significant cultural and spiritual importance in the Black Diaspora, stemming from deep roots in African traditions and experiences. These animals reflect cultural totems and symbols of fearlessness, loyalty, unity, power, protection, and survival. The construction and visible display of the figure’s stance depicted on the canvas stands as the resistance. Allowing the underpainting to breathe is a display of my meditative and unfiltered emotion. Visible brushstrokes and my color palettes’ contrasting colors highlight the artist’s presence and draw sharp focus to the subject. My work becomes a space to reframe these narratives, honoring both personal histories and collective expression.