15/02/2025
Thursday at this opening I realized why last wknd’s Super Bowl halftime performance resonated so deeply with me: with my Portrait of the American Flag (II). It was more than the fact I also referenced the flag directly for social commentary… and many have told me how my flag art spoke to them, even if some the symbolism was not clear. some folk may not care for my work; that’s fine, but I also realize that I wish with my art (and maybe also for K-Dot’s): to inspire, and provoke discussion.. a calling and leading to action which creates change. But for change to happen, I believe unity and solidarity is necessary. I want us to be free, for this we truly need unity. And I do feel that artists can be key leaders; a dedicated artist with a conscience who’s willing to challenge the status quo- that’s always been integral. People from all walks help create social progress. And personally, I’m always inspired by artists who seem keen to shine their light on the plight of we, black and brown, poor and working class women and men and our children… but as an artist I’ve learned too, that everyone is a critic; perhaps that’s amplified in the social media age. Cool. we all have our views.. but I don’t get to dictate how another artist uses his/her platform; all I can do is use my own time and opportunities to create art that makes you FEEL somethin in your soul, for real.
By the way, shown here are two of my favorite paintings I created, currently on display at the Centre Theater in my hometown, including the art gallery of its Charles Blackson Collection exhibit.
Right now I gotta pray on what it’ll take to bring us TOGETHER to actually fight for CHANGE…. In the meantime, my mind already flow like rivers of juices and berries, my art grows blacker by the day. So, they may not like us, but guess what: we don’t care. We still here. 💯🌞🦅❤️🖤💚💫