Examining the legacy of Black collage art, I discovered the profound symbolism, the immense power of cultural expression, and historical commentary inherent in the collage medium. This medium transcended various Black collagists I look up to, including Romare Bearden, Benny Andrews, Deborah Roberts, Al-Baseer Holly, Judy Bowman and Mickalene Thomas. Through their work, I developed a sense of pride and gratitude to carry forth the mantle as a Black collagist.

My work aims to reach beyond the surface-level perceptions of Black identity, revealing its depth, richness, and complexity. By layering elements like collage and painting, I explore the intricate tapestry of Black experiences. Inspired by music, I explore various rhythms to express my emotions and imaginations. These emotional responses are then channeled into abstract shape languages and experimental color palettes, to create a vibrant symphony of harmony that uplifts the soul of Black culture.

As a Detroit native, I strive daily to match the city’s inventive spirit, cultural influence, and artistic heritage. Karriem Riggins, Detroit-born jazz drummer, hip-hop producer, and music trailblazer, inspires me to be multifaceted in my craft. Listening to how Riggins fuses drumming with off-the-grid and heavily sampled beats challenges me to explore my own artistic rhythms and how I can remix them as a collage artist. I apply Riggins’ innovative style to my own practice by sampling the cultural aesthetics from the 1960s era, contemporary animation, and fashion. I combine gestural drawing techniques blended with paper collage and painting to create a kaleidoscope of emotions with crisp and organic tones.

My journey with mixed media teaches me to unapologetically own every mark, shape, and impression I produce on any surface, no matter the amount of materials I use. Instead of viewing my artistic mistakes as setbacks, I embrace the opportunity for creative problem-solving. With jazz-like improvisation, I juggle between collage and wet and dry mediums, to find the right rhythm and best solution to any picture-making problem.