Artist Statement

My paintings recontextualize historical shortcomings of the past. I use symbolism and visual metaphors to explore multifaceted social and political issues. The reoccurring crow in my paintings references both the laws that “enforced racial segregation” and a harbinger- a messenger of the present reminding me to “be aware!” Each painting is embedded with a short story of sorts- a snippet of time frozen on the canvas.

The underlining themes of my work were triggered by my inner dialogues, conversations had or echoed and by current news events rippling throughout the nation. The painting entitled “Black Code” came to fruition after having a conversation- “the talk” with my stepson after viewing a racial bias event on the news. “The Talk” is conversation African American parents have with their children when they reach a certain age. The painting “Black Code” reference an 1865 law that governs the conduct of African Americans.

It’s difficult to move beyond the past when the past keeps becoming the present. My paintings are conversations I am having with myself, my family and with anyone who is interested in listening.