Artist Statement

Being a woman is a gift.

We are the creators, guardians, protectors, and transformers of life –

we are ecstasy. 

We dance, gracefully, the line between strength and tenderness,

asceticism and eroticism,

and are the greatest proof that there is power in vulnerability. 

We make it look easy.

Trespassers of that which we hold sacred, pay the dearest cost.

Our pleasure is overwhelming and endless.

Great conquerors and nations have fought for it,

fallen for it.

Gladly sacrificed life and land for it.

We are artful strategists and quellers. 

We nurture. 

We love. 

We are love.

We are the strongest strength,

Palladium, if you will. 

Having one’s identity stripped, marginalized, dismantled, and dehumanized requires action – the action of reclamation and self-definition.

My artistic practice involves identifying the multifaceted layers of womanhood, and confronting my ideals around gender, race, identity, and beauty. To represent this, I often use contrasting forms, colors, symbols, and lines. Through a process-based, and explicitly personal and sacred ritual, my art explores the depths of who I am, and revolves around the gift of being a Black woman – the ability to contain a multitude of contradictions in a harmonious way.

My work serves to create a space for minorities – specifically women of color – to be exactly who we are without bounds, permission, or societal authority.