ARTIST STATEMENT


In my artistic exploration of black subjects, particularly young black men, I seek to convey a narrative of resilience and strength, transcending narratives of weakness and victimhood. I aim to evoke a profound sense of empowerment, challenging viewers to confront their preconceptions and biases. Through my portrayal of black women, I strive to celebrate their innate beauty and command respect, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping our society despite enduring systemic challenges. Similarly, in depicting black children, I endeavor to inspire hope and optimism, envisioning a future filled with promise and opportunity.

I reject the perpetuation of imagery that depicts black individuals solely within the confines of historical oppression, instead advocating for representations that uplift and affirm our collective humanity. While my focus may predominantly center on black subjects, it is not exclusionary; rather, it serves as a deliberate intervention within the artistic landscape, prompting viewers to engage critically with notions of race, identity, and representation. I invite viewers to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and introspection, challenging them to confront their own biases and assumptions. Ultimately, my art serves as a conduit for social consciousness, urging us all to question the narratives that have shaped our perceptions and to envision a more inclusive and equitable future.


In this painting, the photo behind the head of the boy is of my late father and me as a toddler.

This mural is of the late Robert Smith, my high school art teacher from Cass Technical High School.