04/03/2026
Ever wonder how 197, a HOOPLA signature piece, gets moved?
It’s awkward, goofy and a bit noisy!
And it couldn’t be done without a bit of help! Shout out to my brother (and HOOPLA patron) for driving two hours just to help me put this signature work back in storage.
ABOUT 197, THE WEARABLE SCULPTURE:
This work is rebellion-
a response to a article warning that 197 words might cost you your funding.
Words like diversity, equity, inclusion.
Words that name who we are, what we’ve lived, what we dream.
Part of the HOOPLA collection, this hoopskirt carries those very words— printed on 197 recycled cans,
each one clinking softly like a warning.
Like a prayer.
Graphic + fashion design and photograph by (HOOPLA founder)
ABOUT 197, THE PORTRAIT:
💫 Modeled by Janae White —a friend of the artist—
this isn’t just a portrait.
It’s a moment. A breath.
Where language becomes visible.
Becomes heavy.
Becomes armor.
This portrait asks:
What happens when our truths are labeled “unacceptable”?
When words meant to heal are treated like threats?
It’s a love letter to those 197 terms.
A shield made of everything they told us not to say.
A celebration of the power we carry in our mouths—even when they try to quiet us.
Some pictures say more than a thousand words.
This one dares to hold 197—
and every life they tried to silence.
Because when they say hush…
we HOOPLA.
