Abstracted double portrait embroidered on canvas. Explores themes of spirituality, ancestry, place, and the contemporary constructed self.

Artist Statement:

This work focuses on the relationship of long term friends. I’ve been considering how the accumulation of experience develops wisdom. Sharing those experiences with close friends builds a sense of collective reality. The old friend has seen you grow and evolve over time. Given this experience they have a greater capacity for empathy and understanding of your world view. Within this work the figures overlap, symbolic of their overlapping lived experience. Within the composition you see some spirit type forms as well. A seemingly disembodied mouth with sparkling gold teeth and a dark face in the upper right hand register of the work. The gold teeth is a multifaceted symbol. Historically within the souther black American experience. The choice to implant permanent gold teeth was symbolic of turning one’s back on traditional western society and thriving by one’s own means. I employ the use of the gold teeth as a symbol of the precious nature of speech and the power of the words we speak and even think. The gold teeth are a reminder to be impeccable with one’s word. It is a reminder to me to thrive by my own means. I can’t wait for galleries or institutions I must create my own way and be as creative in business as I am in making art. As the elders converse they weave a collective magic. Their views for the youth impact the next generation. It reminds me that I must be involved with the youth but also with my elders.