For Black America slavery is a dominant mindset that has shaped our expectations as black people. Because of this, America is NUMB to the murder, suffering, grief, and adolescence of black people.
And so we, as black people, have become NUMB to vulnerability because we NEED to survive.
Vulnerability is the essence of fear, shame and our struggle for worthiness. Yet it is also the birthplace of creativity, joy, love and belonging. To be vulnerable means to open yourself up completely, to stand in your nakedness and to lean into every imperfection. It is not easy, but necessary to elevate, grow, love, and evolve.
But...when do we get to be vulnerable? When do we get to ponder how we want to live our lives? When do we get to think about what matters most to us? When do we get to explore the heart of it all? Is it at night before bed when we are fully unmasked? Is it in our alone time?
Time Off is a collection of 8 large pieces made with watercolor paper and wood panel. The series explores black people who are perceived to be strong in vulnerable positions. Pondering questions like the ones mentioned above.
Velvet and Steel. 68 in X 42 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
Time Off. 50 in X 36 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
When The Walls Fall. 68 in X 42 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
Romans 12:2. 37 in X 25 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
Faith Is An Attitude. 68 in. X 42 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
Deep Water and Drowning Are Not The Same Thing, 40 in X by 30 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
Tired of Being Buried Down by Hope. 68 in. X 42 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
God, Where Are You? 50 in X 34 in. 2019. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper and wood panel.
The Deeper Longing is Greater Than Discomfort. 68 in. X 42 in. 2020. Stained, washed and collaged watercolor paper on watercolor paper.