AUTUMN SPEARS B ECOMING

As the art world continues to evolve and change, a new wave of young artists is emerging, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative techniques to the scene. It is inspiring to see young artists who are carving a niche for themselves in the art world. One such promising young artist is Autumn Spears, whose journey since graduating from Albright College in 2020 is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Meet Spears, a promising young artist making waves in the art community. Spears is now based in Washington, D.C., but her passion for art began long before that. Ar a young age she spent most of her childhood drawing and painting, and it was clear to her family and friends that she had a natural talent for it. Over the years, Spears developed her skills through various art classes, but her experience at Albright truly refined her skills and helped her find a unique artistic voice.

One of the hallmarks of Spears’s work is her use of vibrant colors and bold, expressive brushstrokes. In addition, her paintings often feature abstract shapes and patterns that seem to dance across the canvas, creating a sense of movement and energy. She also incorporates elements of nature and the environment into her art, using earthy tones and organic forms to reflect her passion for sustainability and conservation. Spears uses a variety of mediums, including acrylics, oils and even synthetic hair, adding texture and depth to her works—black hair in particular, which Spears says is a massive part of her identity.

Spears’s work is characterized by Black contemporary, which is both bold and striking. She draws inspiration from Frida Kahlo, but her work is entirely her own, a reflection of her personal experiences and innermost thoughts. Spears has a keen eye for detail and is meticulous in her approach to art, spending hours on each piece to ensure that it’s perfect. Her work often features images of Black women, including self-portraits, reflecting her own

by Alyssa Byrd

experiences as a woman. She explores themes of identity, femininity and the human experience, often using vivid colors and bold lines to create powerful, thoughtprovoking imagery.

One of Spears’s most influential works is “Rebirth,” showcased at the “Autumn Spears: Becoming” 2023 exhibit at Albright’s Freedman Gallery. The piece drew attention for its Black Feminist viewpoint of Adam and Eve and creationism. In the design, depictions of nature and waterfalls are held by a goddess character. Her signature of boldly colored orange, purple and blue wings again graces the art. An undeniable pattern of influential Black people in her artwork always, the interpretation can coincide with the origin of Black aborigines, the first beings to arise from the Earth.

Another notable work of Spears is a piece titled “Ghost of Black Girl’s Present.” The bold colors of Fuschia, Green and Yellow are a constant theme in her works. The hair products’ hues and nostalgic presence can almost be smelled, even at first glance. Excess hair and the used wide tooth comb are an ode to young black kids who’ve faced the same experience as her. “There are a lot of personal and cultural identities woven into the work,” Spears explains.

Black culture and hair are seen again through her interwoven sculptures. One of them, “The Hair I Wear,” is displayed draped over a mannequin, and showcases more than 100 braided strains plated together. In this elegant diamond cross pattern dress, the sculpture represents the beauty hair can bring as well as its ability to transcend people emotionally.

Beyond her work as an artist, Spears is also involved in teaching. She believes that art is a powerful tool for communication and social change. Therefore, she strives to use her imagery to convey important messages and inspire others, such as the children in her classroom.

Finding the balance between teaching and creating art can be challenging, but Spears explains she didn’t want to “let the artist in me die.” She says that when you’re an artist, you must remember to cater to your creative side and not just let your career get in the way of developing your craft. Remember to find balance with it all. “You can’t be a 100 and 0, and you cannot pour from an empty cup,” she explains. And when doing so, don’t limit yourself to the materials around you. There is no time to wait for the newest program or equipment. Instead, Spears says to “make with what you have.”

Looking ahead, Spears has big plans for the future. She hope to continue pushing the boundaries of her art and explore new mediums and styles. She also aspires to collaborate with other artists and art organizations to create meaningful work that positively impacts society.

Spears is a promising young artist whose unique style and creative vision are a testament to the power of art and the boundless possibilities of creative expression. We can’t wait to see where her artistic journey takes them next.