“Shades of Self” 2024
Statment:
This piece captures the stark duality I face, torn between my black identity and the demands of living in a predominantly white society. The contrasting halves of the face, one negative and the other positive, symbolize my ongoing internal conflict. The white side, harsh and overexposed, represents the scrutiny and often blinding expectations of a society that views through a monochromatic lens. The black side, rich in texture and depth, embodies my true identity, filled with history, culture, and innate creativity, often overshadowed by societal pressures. This dichotomy mirrors my struggle to reconcile these opposing forces, seeking a space where both identities can coexist without one diminishing the other.
Self-Portrait Series 2023
Statement:
As a mixed individual in America, the journey of fighting and loving your ego is a delicate balancing act. It's like walking on a tightrope between two contrasting worlds, constantly navigating the complexities of your identity. The fight involves confronting societal expectations, stereotypes, and prejudices, which often try to box you into predefined categories.
Loving your ego, on the other hand, demands embracing all aspects of yourself, both cultural and individual. It means celebrating your heritage while forging a unique path, unapologetically standing at the intersection of diverse influences. The struggle is to find harmony within, to quell self-doubt and insecurities, and to rise above the noise of external judgments.
Through this life journey, I learned to cherish my multifaceted identity, finding strength in my diversity. It's a continuous process of growth, self-awareness, and empowerment, nurturing love for myself as a mixed individual in a nation of multicultural wonders.
“Dawn”
Self-portrait 2023
“Blood Land” 2022 —* On-going Series *
Statement:
American Land is beautiful, but this beauty masks a painful history.
The vibrant landscapes and thriving cities are built on the foundations of colonization, slavery, and the displacement of native peoples. These historical injustices have disproportionately affected minorities, whose blood, sweat, and tears have fueled America’s growth. While history often paints a picture of a nation forged through noble endeavors, the reality is far more complex and sobering. The resilience and contributions of these communities are what truly keep America running, even as they continue to bear the heaviest burdens.
