"Wisdom," a captivating masterpiece inspired by the Book of Proverbs in the Bible, specifically personifying wisdom as a woman, draws its essence from Proverbs 31:26: "She opens her mouth with wisdom; And the law of kindness is on her tongue."

Throughout the corridors of time, maternal figures have consistently been our compass for guidance and wisdom. This evocative painting captures the poignant scene of children gazing up to an elder motherly figure seated in a rocking chair, seeking the wellspring of her wisdom and advice. Adorning her dress are screen-printed images of mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and sisters from diverse historical epochs, creating a visual tapestry that cascades onto the floor—a symbolic representation of the continuous progress and forward movement of the black community.

The custom-made shadow box, adorned with vibrant African wax print fabric, becomes a visual symphony, illuminated by LED lights transitioning through hues of pinks, purples, and reds. At the apex of the box, a cutout plexiglass panel proudly displays the word "wisdom," as the essence of wisdom spills beyond its confines into the viewer's space.

Within this artistic realm, three-dimensional elements come to life—handmade leather books and notable literary works such as W.E.B. Du Bois' "The Souls of Black Folk" and the Bible grace the shelves, adding layers of significance. Sepia-toned pictures of children, fixated on the embodiment of wisdom, further enrich the narrative, creating a harmonious interplay of symbolism and visual storytelling. "Wisdom" emerges as a poignant exploration of heritage, progress, and the enduring journey of the black community, inviting viewers to reflect on the profound legacy of maternal wisdom.

She opens her mouth with WISDOM

2023

Dimensions: 65in x 65in x 5in 

Medium: Acrylic and Oil on wood panel, Mixed media, Collage, Handmade leather books, LED lights , Laser Etched Polycarbonate panel, Screen printed fabric in a Custom shadow box.

"Bloodlines" is a vivid tribute rendered in paint, dedicated to the profound influence of my four brothers and the men who form the backbone of our family. At its core, the artwork encapsulates the essence of two of my brothers immersed in the dynamic cultural tapestry of New York City, where the vibrant realms of hip hop and martial arts seamlessly intertwine.

The tattooed figures at the heart of the composition serve as powerful symbols representing fathers, grandfathers, and nephews. They embody a harmonious fusion of passions, weaving together elements of kung fu, hip-hop, action figures, and comics. This amalgamation is a testament to the diverse influences that have shaped their identities, rooted in a shared upbringing immersed in the sounds of hip-hop, the thrill of karate films, and the allure of collecting action figures and comics. Icons such as Wu Tang and Bruce Lee continue to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on their character.

The regal crown molding enveloping the artwork and the mantelpiece serves as a deliberate nod to traditional Chinese architecture, imparting a nuanced and culturally rich dimension to the piece. In "Bloodlines," the convergence of personal passions and cultural heritage unfolds, creating a visual narrative that pays homage to the intricate tapestry of familial connections and the dynamic interplay of diverse influences.

Dimensions: 60w x 84h x 10d

Medium: Acrylic and spray paint on Canvas, Mixed Media, Toys, Foam, Wood and Custom mantle piece.

The essence behind Hair Day was to evoke a sense of nostalgia, tapping into cherished memories and enduring traditions ingrained in Black Culture for generations. This day-long ritual, encompassing everything from washing and detangling to the meticulous execution of a chosen hairstyle, became a shared experience marked by a collective endurance of discomfort in anticipation of the forthcoming beauty.

Throughout this extended affair, I vividly recall my mother, stationed by the brownstone window, observing the unfolding events of the day. Somehow, her presence made time glide by more swiftly. In crafting this piece, my aim was to resurrect this tradition and pay homage to the mothers, grandmothers, and fathers of yesteryear who devoted their time to styling our hair.

Infusing my Christian background into the artwork without overshadowing the viewer was a delicate balance I sought to strike. I opted to achieve this by mirroring the composition of the traditional Mary and Jesus pose, with the halo radiating behind her head. The positioning and elevation of the artwork on the wall were intended to convey a sense of an altar or shrine, inviting the viewer into a sacred space of reflection and prayer. The supplementary side pieces adorned with accents trace the trajectory of tradition, bridging the gap from ancestral roots in Africa to contemporary times.

Dimensions: 40in x 75in x 7d

Medium: Acrylic and Oil paint on Canvas, Mixed Media, Collage, Hair Products, Books, and Custom mantle piece

Historically, "The King's Court" denoted the assembly of the king's advisors and household, comprising relatives, barons, lords, and clergy, providing counsel and support to the monarch. In the Black community, a contemporary parallel has emerged in the form of the barbershop. Evolving into a sanctuary for Black men and boys, it has become a space characterized by transparency, vulnerability, wisdom, encouragement, and freedom.

Beyond its primary function as a grooming space, the barbershop has transformed into a micro-community center. Here, crucial discussions unfold on a range of topics such as current events, politics, history, health, and more. These establishments serve as a refuge against discrimination, fostering open conversations about identity, aspirations, and beliefs. In this context, "The King's Court" symbolizes a gathering place for responsible community members, leaders, and those committed to reshaping narratives and revealing truths.

It serves as a call to address and heal from the community's collective trauma, recognizing that genuine leadership involves acknowledging and understanding shared experiences. Within The King's Court, individuals seek counsel, support, and guidance, aiming to illuminate truths and pursue justice for the betterment of future generations.

Dimensions: 56in x 84in  x 5d

Medium - Acrylic and Oil paint on Wood panel, Mixed Media, Books, Collage, LED lights, Custom made Shadowbox and Audio conversation 1.5 hours. 

Reflecting on the nostalgic tapestry of 80s New York City, Saturdays were a symphony of shared moments, with a bowl of cereal acting as the communal centerpiece for my five siblings gathered around the television. The animated world of The Care Bears, among other favorites, painted the vibrant backdrop of those mornings.

In my piece, "Mama Bear," I embark on a journey into a universal narrative that resonates with the maternal figures that weave through our lives—mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts—each personifying the virtues embodied by The Care Bears. Tenderheart Bear becomes the harbinger of lessons in compassion and understanding, while Funshine Bear's perpetual optimism reminds us to savor life's moments. Grumpy Bear serves as a poignant reminder that mothers, too, navigate a spectrum of emotions, acknowledging that not every day is perfect. And then there's Birthday Bear, a testament to the enduring significance of our mothers, who unfailingly remember and celebrate our milestones.

Even long after their physical presence has departed, what remains is the indelible imprint of unconditional love and care that they bestowed upon us. The animated tales of The Care Bears, with their vibrant characters and life lessons, imprinted on us the values of togetherness, unity, love, and, above all, the warmth of hugs—a timeless and cherished legacy from those Saturday mornings that continues to resonate through the corridors of memory.

Dimensions: 156in x 84in  x 8d Medium: Acrylic and spray paint on Canvas, Mixed Media, Toys, Candy Gummy Bears,Foam, Wood and Custom mantle piece.

Ah, the saga of Zee's adventures in teenage rebellion continues! This time, she's on a mission to break free from her grounding just for the epic 10th-grade homecoming football game between Birdville and Polytech High School. The stakes are high, and Zee's determination knows no bounds, despite her recent shenanigans.

In a stroke of negotiation brilliance, we strike a deal: Zee can attend the game as long as she makes it home in time for Vision Board night. But, of course, we're running late, and in a comedic twist, I hop on my trusty scooter to race her through the chaos of traffic to get to Birdville High School.

This scenario is just one of the many charmingly desperate second chance letters that Zee has penned. These letters, slipped under my door, reveal her earnest attempts at negotiating the terms of her punishment. It's a classic tale of a teenager trying to finesse their way out of being grounded to enjoy some fun with friends.

Whether you're a parent or not, we've all been kids who can relate to the universal struggle of attempting to outsmart the rules for the sake of a good time. These letters, filled with innocence and humor, will find their way into some of my artworks, capturing the delightful and comical side of the parent-child dynamic. After all, who can resist the charm of a teenager trying to bend the rules in the pursuit of teenage adventures?

Dimensions: 83in x 50in x 5in 

Medium: Acrylic, Oil and spray paint on wood panel, Mixed media, Collage, Hand sculpted scooter with Spinning wheel, Assemblage art, LED lights Foam, Wood, Custom shadow box.

In the lively atmosphere of 1980s New York City, subway trains transformed into vibrant canvases adorned with rebellious graffiti, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated Saturday mornings as unsung heroes navigating bustling streets.

"The King and I" captures the tale of George Washington, a trailblazing African American police officer in the NYPD K9 unit, and his loyal companion, King, immortalized in a newspaper's ink. Washington symbolized "Firsts" — a courageous breaker of barriers and a pathfinder for a generation.

This painting pays homage not just to an individual but to a legion of unsung heroes, the contemporary "True Warriors" akin to the legendary "Buffalo Soldiers." Clad in the armor of determination, they ventured into realms deemed impossible, leaving an indelible mark on history. Mr. Washington and his compatriots, the "heroes in a black shell," stood as guardians of dreams in an era challenging their existence. The canvas immortalizes their resilience, celebrating a historical chapter where obstacles were overcome, and doors opened for dreams to flourish.

Accompanying this tribute is a poignant video testimony featuring George Washington, now in his late 70s, reflecting on 1980s racism within the K9 unit. His recollections include King apprehending a subway chain snatcher, their story gracing the New York Post cover. This condensed narrative encapsulates a transformative era, honoring those who forged paths against odds, leaving an enduring impact on history. The canvas and testimony together serve as a powerful testament to resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit of those who faced adversity head-on.

Dimensions: 56in x 84in  x 5d

Medium - Acrylic and Oil paint on Wood panel, Mixed Media, LED lights, Shadowbox and Audio Video testimony

"Raising Kings" stands as a poignant portrayal of the profound connection between a single mother and her son, personified through my dear friend Natasha Mayne and her child. This painting is a deliberate homage to the complexities and beauty inherent in the role of a single mother.

Accompanying the artwork is a small poem: "To the Queen who delights in raising her lil king, always remember to set his crown high." This poetic expression encapsulates the essence of the piece, emphasizing the regal nature of the relationship between mother and son.

The act of raising, depicted both physically and spiritually, encapsulates the multifaceted role of a single mother. Taking on the responsibilities traditionally associated with both parents, she not only lifts her son physically onto her back but also engages in the profound task of spiritually and emotionally nurturing him into becoming the best man possible. The symbolism of setting his crown high establishes a standard for excellence, reflecting the universal aspiration for our children to reach their utmost potential.

"Dedicated to all the single mothers that try their best to raise young men," "Raising Kings" is a testament to the strength, resilience, and love embodied by these mothers. Executed in acrylic on canvas with gold leaf and paper, the addition of a headless figure made of feathers adds an intriguing layer to the composition. Encased in a 5-inch deep plexiglass shadow box, the text and crown, hand-painted on the plexiglass, further elevate the visual and symbolic depth of this heartfelt piece.

Dimensions: 48 x 48 x 5 

Medium : Acrylic on canvas, Paper, Feathers, Gold leaf in Plexiglass shadowbox

RoboNana emerges as the inaugural centerpiece of a magnificent 25-foot installation, introducing the whimsical ensemble known as "My Double Dutch Family," featuring three robots joyfully engrossed in the art of double dutch jump rope. This sculpture stands as a profound homage to my mother, the quintessential matriarch, celebrating her multifaceted roles as a mother, grandmother (Nana), and the embodiment of matriarchal strength.

The assemblage art chest serves as a multi-dimensional masterpiece, intricately capturing facets of my mother's life that brought her immense joy. Within the upper-level library, mini-robots participate in story time, each cradling their favorite books. The second level unfolds into an artist's studio where the distinguished "Employee of the Month" is immortalized on canvas, alongside a recipe corner preserving Nana's treasured secret recipes. The lower level transforms into the Gardens of Grandmas and a sewing studio, where Nana skillfully crafts her latest fashions to enchant the entire robotic ensemble.

This fantastical world of Nana is adorned with butterfly wings shaped like the African continent, a steel wool afro crowned with a stylish church hat, and bags from Nana's favorite stores, including Trader Joe's, each laden with sale items. It stands as a jubilant celebration of the nurturing spirit, creativity, and distinctive character of a beloved matriarch. The installation beckons viewers into a captivating realm where joy, love, and cherished memories abound, inviting them to immerse themselves in the enchanting legacy of this remarkable maternal figure.

Dimensions: 6ft w x 24d x 7ft h

Medium: Shadowbox with Acrylic and Spray paint, Collage, Glitter, Mixed Media, Wood, Foam sculpted sneakers, Assemblage Art and Led lights.

"Black Beauty" stands as a profound artistic redefinition of the narrative surrounding Black fatherhood and manhood, challenging misconceptions and celebrating Black joy. The painting captures empowered Black men radiating smiles, surrounded by families reveling in unity, fostering a positive narrative that honors and respects fathers and elders within our communities.

This dynamic canvas serves as a platform for a video projection, featuring a mix of pictures, videos, and text. The multimedia presentation aims to uplift and affirm viewers while challenging stereotypes and offering hope to a misrepresented population. Encased in a custom vintage TV frame historically associated with negative portrayals of Black men, this artwork becomes a symbol of a new televised revolution.

To accentuate the regality of the depicted individuals, the bottom portion of the painting and frame are adorned with gold paint, symbolizing their royal status. A poignant proverb, Proverbs 17:6, "An old man's grandchildren are his crowning glory. A child's glory is his father," complements the piece. This artwork stands as a visual testament to the transformative power of rewriting narratives and embracing the beauty of Black joy.

The video projection features black men exuding joy, accompanied by bold affirming text and set against the backdrop of the song "Monster" by Jacob Banks. This song serves as a poignant commentary on how society sometimes views Black men without truly understanding them, adding depth and emotion to the visual narrative. Together, these elements create a multisensory experience that challenges perceptions and celebrates the richness of Black life.