Statement

In my work the past meets the present. I am charting my personal history and the history of the African Diaspora, while also questioning the current and historical representation of black women. I do this by reconnecting lost and unknown connections while reflecting on ideas of emergence, revelation, honor, reverence, power, presence, and resilience.

 

Through painting, installation and elements of performance, I produce an interwoven surface of ideas and histories. Using dye, acrylic washes and oil paint, my work loosely references African American Quilting, Asante Kente weaving patterns, and Ghanaian batik. I look for ways in which the use of fabric within West African garments has been reflected throughout diasporic cultural practices.

 

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As an artist today in this current climate, there are so many unknowns and plenty of uncertainties in the midst of a pandemic and social unrest. I believe that we have a responsibility and extraordinary opportunity to speak up and use our work as a tool to dig deeper. We are called to pose questions, critique, to inspire, to translate, and present propositions that move others to think and reflect. The work we create often becomes a vehicle for voices and messages unheard, and it often reflects the pulse of our world. For me, as an artist and as an African American woman, I feel my role is to stand up, speak clearly, and use my work not only as a tool for expression, but as a tool for creating change. I am interested in telling the stories of the underrepresented, engaging the lives, history and lived experiences of those throughout the African Diaspora and our connections with one another throughout all societies and cultures.