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Have you ever been in a crowded room with lots of conversation? Dialogue exchanges about subjects you know a great deal about, and no one will allow you to express your voice or thoughts. It’s subtle and yet quite intentional exclusion. Women, minorities, and people on the outside of society know too well when this happens.
I remember working at a fancy art gallery in a wealthy part of Philadelphia. Most of the clients lived in estate-size homes or multimillion-dollar lofts. Our sales consultants were hired for their looks rather than their art knowledge. My job was to handle the art and ultimately deliver and hang the works after purchase. I was the only one who had an art history background. I was also well-traveled. Many times, a sales consultant, as they talked to their wealthy clients, would want to include me in their conversation. The client would immediately give a blank stare and disconnect by changing the subject or moving away.
The voice of inclusion is necessary as the footprint of America and the world has changed dramatically.
There is no us or them. It’s we.
Another idea based on the book of essays by James Baldwin
Nobody Knows My Name:
We have created a parallel universe of culture, academics, business, and lifestyles to supersede the erasure of our existence. However, as a result, talent, genius, invention, and spirit have inspired the world in numerous ways.
Let’s not forget we are beautiful both inside and out. This can’t be denied.
ARTIST STATEMENT
I am in search of my higher consciousness, all within the constraints of this part melanin-based vessel. Some say we arrive out of the womb already aware of our destiny. I have always gravitated toward future ideas: new approaches and ways of looking at things. I’ve been searching for humanity within the sea of infinite compassion. Simply trying to get closer to the divine. I meditate twice a day. I try to nourish my body and my soul with proper sustenance. My art practice is a continuation of these values. This often leads me to make observations about this life and its consequences.
I love all of the art forms. I am most adept with pigments and painting devices. I listen to music, watch films, and read constantly. However, when starting a painting, I work in silence. It gives me better clarity in developing a dialogue and a narrative within the art itself. Once the work can stand up, I can begin introducing external sounds to continue my practice.
I would say my work's most recurring theme is identity, especially in these times filled with animosity toward the skin that many of my brothers and sisters inhabit. It is within this framework my paintings are born. The art, for me, is both an evaluation and validation of our existence. We exist. We are beautiful. We are powerful and humane. We are love.
Contact Information: mikelartist39@gmail.com
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