My art process is a tapestry of community, found materials, and collective memory. I gather discarded items, each carrying its own story, and weave them into new narratives. Through collaborative workshops and beach clean ups, I engage with community members, listening to their stories and incorporating their memories into my work. This shared journey transforms individual experiences into a collective history. My art is not just a creation, but a communal act of remembrance, healing, and celebration of our intertwined lives and histories.
I not really into metal; I was more into 80’s punk and hip hop. However, I can still completely relate to being the only person of color in predominantly Caucasian settings.
I can’t help but marvel at the incredible role textiles play in carrying the torch of tradition. It’s like they have this magical ability to bridge gaps—be it cultural, temporal, or geographical. Textiles aren’t just fabrics; they’re storytellers, weaving together a vibrant tapestry of history, techniques, and artistry that breaks through boundaries.
Take a moment to appreciate the intricate patterns adorning traditional indigenous garments, the meaningful Ankara motifs gracing ceremonial textiles, or the subtle, timeless codes hidden within quilts. Each thread, each stitch, is a vessel carrying the essence of our heritage, traversing the vast canvas of human experience.
As these textiles unfold their stories, they become tangible links across time and diverse cultures. It’s a beautiful dance—threads weaving through the loom of different traditions, connecting the past to the present. And here’s the magic: they don’t just stop there. They effortlessly extend into the future, allowing traditions to intermingle and unfurl seamlessly.
So, let’s celebrate the enchanting journey of textiles—their ability to carry the weight of history, to stitch together cultures, and to create a fabric that binds us all. Every weave tells a story, and every pattern echoes the whispers of our shared heritage. 🌐🧵
The song “Holiday” by Problem Child is crazy viral in my Caribbean social algorithm with hundreds of videos with mega views, so why doesn’t the music video have more views?
The song is destined to be a 2024 Carnival monster hit, so show some love to “Holiday” and crank those views up… #obsessed
I wanted to drop a quick note about something that’s been on my mind lately—the beauty of embracing uncertainty. Life can be a bit chaotic, right? But here’s the twist: within that chaos lies the potential for something truly extraordinary.
As I navigate my new life on St Croix USVI, I’ve come to realize that the unexpected, the unplanned, and the downright chaotic moments often pave the way for the most exciting opportunities. It’s like dancing in the rain when the sun is still shining—unpredictable, a little messy, but oh-so-refreshing.
Sure, uncertainty can be a bit nerve-wracking. The unknown can be like a dark tunnel, but guess what? There’s always a light at the end. And sometimes, that light leads to doors we never knew existed.
In a world that loves order and predictability, I’ve decided to embrace the chaos. Because within that chaos, I’ve found the space to explore, to create, and to stumble upon opportunities that I wouldn’t have discovered in a neatly planned life in New Jersey.
Think about it—the most beautiful flowers often bloom in the wild, not in perfectly manicured gardens. So, why not let life be a little wild, a little untamed?
I’ve made it my mission to see every twist, turn, and unexpected detour as a chance for growth, learning, and discovery. The next time life throws a curveball, I’m catching it with open arms, ready for the adventure it brings.
So, here’s to embracing the uncertainty, to finding joy in the unplanned, and to recognizing that within chaos lies the opportunity for something truly extraordinary. Life is an adventure, after all—let’s make it a remarkable one! 🌈✨ #EmbraceUncertainty #FindOpportunities #LifeAdventure
Creativity often requires stepping outside of my comfort zone, challenging conventional thinking, and being willing to embrace uncertainty. This vulnerability is not a weakness but rather a strength, as it allows me to connect with my emotions, tap into my unique perspective, and create something authentic and meaningful.
Blackity Black Blanket, ladders and emotional baggage cart, close up
In a society where division often overshadows unity, my practice endeavors to break down barriers and build bridges. It is a commitment to fostering empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of responsibility. By harnessing the transformative power of art, I strive to create a ripple effect that goes beyond the gallery walls and resonates within the hearts and minds of those who encounter it.
My journey as an artist is not just a pursuit of aesthetics; it is a deliberate and conscious effort to contribute to the larger narrative of social change. Through my art, I aspire to inspire, challenge, and mobilize communities towards a collective vision of a more just, equitable, and compassionate world. Art is not the end in itself; it is the tool that propels us towards a brighter and more inclusive future.
In a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, the nuanced perspectives of nearly 5,000 Black adults shed light on the enduring challenges faced by Black Americans in media representation. The findings reveal a pervasive sense of concern, with a majority expressing skepticism about the prospects of positive change in the foreseeable future.
According to the Pew Research Center, 39% of Black Americans frequently encounter news that is perceived as racist or racially insensitive. Furthermore, a substantial 43% believe that media coverage predominantly relies on stereotypes when depicting Black individuals. The survey also exposes a concerning sentiment, with almost two-thirds of Black adults (63%) asserting that news about the Black community tends to be more negative compared to coverage of other racial and ethnic groups.
Addressing Issues Through Art:
As an artist deeply engaged with societal narratives, I find inspiration and purpose in confronting these challenges through my creative endeavors. The act of weaving, a fundamental part of my artistic practice, serves as a transformative process for me to address and visually reinterpret the negative portrayals present in media narratives.
Creative Transformation:
Through my work, I intentionally integrate these negative stories into the textiles I craft. This intentional act of creation is not merely about representation; it’s a powerful tool of transformation. By weaving these narratives into my art, I navigate a process that both confronts and separates me from the weight of these stories.
A Visual Commentary:
The textiles I create become more than just artistic expressions; they become visual commentaries on the media landscape. Each piece bears the threads of societal narratives, challenging viewers to consider the impact of media representation on the perception of Black individuals. It’s an invitation to engage in a dialogue that goes beyond the surface, encouraging reflection on the broader implications of biased news coverage.
Empowering through Art:
In the face of media challenges, my artistic practice becomes a means of empowerment. By reclaiming agency through the act of creation, I seek to unravel the negative threads woven into the media discourse. The resulting artworks offer not only a critique of biased coverage but also a testament to the resilience and transformative power inherent in art.
As the survey highlights the persisting challenges in media representation, artists play a crucial role in shaping the narrative. By creatively responding to these issues, we contribute to a broader dialogue that challenges existing norms and fosters a more equitable and nuanced portrayal of the Black experience. Through art, we transform negative narratives into expressions of strength, resilience, and empowerment.
Through my social practice, I strive to create spaces that transcend the conventional boundaries of artistic expression. I mobilize communities, encouraging them to participate in a collective dialogue about the issues that matter. The power of art lies not just in its visual or auditory appeal, but in its ability to challenge preconceptions, question norms, and inspire action.
Art, as a tool for social change, is not confined to grand gestures or monumental installations. It is found in the subtle nuances of everyday life, in the stories of individuals, and in the shared experiences that bind us together. My work seeks to tap into this collective consciousness, fostering connections that serve as a catalyst for change.
In the realm of artistic expression, I find solace in the belief that art is not merely a static entity confined to galleries, canvases, or tapestries. Instead, it is a dynamic force capable of transcending traditional boundaries, sparking conversations, and ultimately fostering social change.
My journey as an artist has led me to embrace a social practice where the aim is clear: to channel the power of art as a tool for mobilization and as a space for critical dialogue.
Art, in its various forms, has the unique ability to captivate hearts, challenge minds, and ignite powerful emotions. It is a universal language that speaks to individuals across cultures and backgrounds. However, my conviction lies in the understanding that art is not the end goal; it is the means to a greater purpose — social change.
In a world marked by complex challenges and evolving societal dynamics, I aim to go beyond the confines of traditional artistic pursuits. By integrating social practice into my artistic journey, I have discovered the incredible potential to engage with communities on a deeper level. Art becomes a bridge, connecting diverse perspectives and providing a platform for unheard voices.
Free Your Mind, sharing a story ribbonFree Your Mind, participants
