MAHYUE MAGAZINE INSPIRED BY THE INNER CHILD THAT LIVES WITHIN EVERY ARTIST
W I N T E R 2020/2021
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ISSUE 4
Sasha-Loriene, 'Mahyue.' 20" x 16" Acrylic on Canvas. 2020.
M A H Y U E , T H E N A M E F O R ' G I R L' I N T H E B A S S A D I A L E C T ( L I B E R I A ) . W H E R E V E R YO U R J O U R N E Y TA K E S YO U, K N OW T H AT YO U'R E A L I V I N G M A N I F E S TAT I O N O F YO U R I N N E R C H I L D'S W I L D E S T D R E A M S. K E E P G O I N G. 2
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TABLE OF CONTENT 2
EDITOR'S NOTE
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
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MAHYUE STUDIOS
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Expansion & Investment
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BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT
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2020: A Reflection of Resiliency
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BGWP Awards Fund
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The Artist & Her Practice: Featured Artists
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Leila Victorin
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Jardan Doneghy
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Tiffani Glen
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Kaliah Hekima
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LaJae Essence
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MyLin Stokes-Kennedy
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Tiffany Skyers
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Directory
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SPECIAL THANKS
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EDITOR'S NOTE Dear Reader, Welcome to Issue 4 of Mahyue Magazine! We spent most of 2020 defining the long-term changes we wanted to see in the art world and within our community. Our goal was to plant the seeds that would inspire generations to come, long after our milestones of today and tomorrow are met. We wanted to place special emphasis on the art and stories of Black women artists and were given the opportunity to pause and figure out just how we wanted to show up. This was the start of a new adventure that tested our efficacy and resiliency. With the uncertainty of our social landscape lingering, we continued to take risks, venture into new territories, and carve out our safe space in the arts community. We're excited to enter 2021 on a more positive and optimistic note! We're ready to see just how 2021 is going to exceed our expectations in terms of growth, impact, and longevity! This issue is a celebration of our accomplishments and expansion. It serves as a reminder to be present regardless of your obstacles. There is always a silver lining that can be found once we are open to receiving it. As we embark on a new year, we are fired up now more than ever to see the fruits of our labor and inspire others to do the same. Thanks for supporting Black women artists, and our next generation of artists - actual Black girls who paint, and our new endeavors. Stay blessed!
Best,
Sasha-Loriene
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Editor-in-Chief Sasha-Loriene Creative Director Sasha-Loriene Designer Sasha-Loriene
Find Us www.mahyuestudios.com www.instagram.com/mahyuestudios www.blackgirlswhopaint.com www.instagram.com/blackgirlswhopaint www.facebook.com/blackgirlswhopaint www.twitter.com/bgwptweets General Inquiries info@mahyuestudios.com hey@blackgirlswhopaint.com
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MAHYUE STUDIOS 4
EXPANSION AND INVESTMENT For many artists, art is both a refuge to and from the outside world. We have the unique ability to create from a vulnerable state, where visuals are our preferred method of communication. We communicate thoughts, feelings, and emotions through the use of our materials and mediums without the confinement of everyday speech. Hints of our artistic disposition can even be traced throughout our childhood. After all, creative curiosity is a part of our cognitive development throughout our lifespans. As we grow older and mature in our respective practices, we periodically ask ourselves, “what am I creating” and “who am I creating for?” We question our growth and artistic direction to determine if our ‘why’ aligns with our current state. And each time we reach these crossroads, we have the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and apply our recent life experiences to compliment the details. We get to sit with ourselves and redefine what statement(s) we are currently making with our art. This moment came to me in 2019 when I had the realization that being an artist is a proactive state - a continuous journey of transformation. I had reached a creative plateau and rarely connected with the artwork I was creating, even though I knew it would be well-received by my audience. I was restricting myself with the expectations and desires of others while only scratching the surface of who I was as an artist and storyteller. I realized that being an artist is more than just creating beautiful artwork, it's about creating a universal language, an actual story, that connects parts of myself and my artwork with the viewer. It's about the meaning and intention behind what we create, no matter how large or small.
Hilltop Wright
Jazmine McFadden's Workspace
With this revelation, I started searching introspectively. I quickly became captivated with the stories I wanted to tell and the ways I could tell them and less concerned about the stories that others wanted to consume. I wanted to expand as an artist and invest in my art practice through reflection, reimagination, and reinvention. Summer Breeze Dolls stickers by Addie Rawr
Reflection: Start From Within To Expand In taking a step back to determine the source of my creative blockage, my goal was to determine why some of my works resonated more with me than others. I took inventory of my artwork created over the past 7 years, focusing on how I felt while creating and after it was finished. I had no connection with some paintings but had a deep connection with others, as if I had a time machine and was feeling all of the emotions I wanted to hide or portray in them. I noticed that my artistic process felt different when I would experiment with Vanessa Turner
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different kinds of materials and techniques and create artwork that held the feelings I kept inside. Those qualities were very nostalgic, exhibiting a childlike euphoria even though I created them at various stages of my adulthood. It was like those paintings had an actual heartbeat.
Mahyue Study #13 by Sasha-Loriene
During this process, I had no idea that I was actually doing inner child work and reconnecting with my original self - the girl who freely created independent of the status quo. I grew up extremely shy and introverted, but enjoyed communicating with lines, colors, and shapes instead of words. That was how I made sense of myself and others. I began to understand how all of my artistic endeavors actually stemmed from my wants and desires, as well as my aversion and trauma, as a little girl. It helped me to unpack why I wasn’t creating the type of artwork that aligned with me and figure out a way to reconnect to a time that I was. I also found patterns and made connections with how I have always operated as a person and how I express myself as an artist. I gained much insight into the kind of artist I wanted to be, and honestly, already was.
Reimagination: Think Differently To Exist Differently
Kaliah Hekima, Hekima's Studio
In the midst of my inner child work, I noticed how variations of my childhood doodle were prominent in most of my sketches, meeting notes from work, and original paintings. It always resembled a little girl in a dress, sometimes having hair or a crown. I spent more time with this doodle to find it’s deeper meaning if it had one. I wanted to name it. I knew she was a little girl so I decided to name her ‘Mahyue,’ the word for ‘girl’ in the Bassa dialect (Liberia) that my mother called me throughout my childhood and still to this day. I also realized that Mahyue wasn’t just some sketch that I doodled when I was bored. She was actually a visual representation of my inner child.
Mahyue doodle by Sasha-Loriene
Mahyue helped me to see the connections in my life and understand the bigger picture. Some things have a season, but ultimately everything has a reason. Mahyue encouraged me to create the vehicles of change that I lacked as a child, including BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT (BGWP) and every program or initiative attached to it. She also encouraged me to live a life full of alignment while reminding me that I already was doing so, I just had to change my perspective. She helped me realize that if I get to define my own success without the attachment to a rigid timeline, as inner child work isn't linear. It's more of a way that helped me understand that my subconscious tends to work for me and not always against me. I realized that the work I was doing in my life, art practice, and creative projects was just beginning. Constantly connecting with and affirming Mahyue not only helped me move through creative blocks and combat imposter syndrome, but craft an art practice that felt as good as it looked.
Mural by Janel Young, JY Originals
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Reinvention: Invest To Create One of my mantras in life and art is “when we see ourselves, we believe in ourselves and encourage others to do the same.” As such, I'm excited to announce the official launch of Mahyue Studios, a creative agency that encourages artists to reacquaint themselves with their inner child through the lens of Mahyue. I’m focusing on the art of being, as opposed to performing, to enhance both the artist and studio practice. Mahyue Studios is also the parent organization of BGWP, as BGWP is Mahyue’s community of Black women artists that she is finally seeing. Some things to look forward to this year with Mahyue Studios includes: • Mahyue Artist Sketchbook: A 90 day sketchbook and journal designed for artists to cultivate creative habits and inner child work that enriches the artist practice • Paint and Parler Series: A 6 week Creative Workshop Series that encourages artists to find, name, and reclaim their inner child – our most authentic self before our experiences shaped our reality. Essentially, my artwork is a byproduct of myself that stems from my childhood experiences and how I make sense of the world around me. Even though this is a glimpse into my journey, every artist has a journey that tends to overlap and coincide with others. I believe artists deserve to live in their purpose, tell their own stories, and have sustainable art practices. I aim to see this occur with Mahyue Studios.
Mahyue Study #14 by Sasha-Loriene
Bri Simpson
Artists experience creative plateaus and artist blocks during multiple points of our practice. This is a part of the process. These periods teach us about ourselves and prepare us for our next stage. We plant our own seeds in these moments because being an artist is less not about the admiration you receive from others and more about the longer jounery that does not necessarily have an exact destination. Oil Study by Aielle Lang, King Beazus
Mastery comes from years of experience, practice, and growth. It takes time to develop your artistic voice and style, let alone build consistency and alignment within your practice. If you’re currently experiencing a plateau in your practice, know that you’re not alone. Spend time with yourself - your 'why' and your 'how.' Reconnect with your inner child and get back to the basics of what truly fulfills you as an artist. Remember to reflect, reimagine, and reinvent yourself as many times as you need to. Wherever your journey takes you, know that you are a living manifestation of your inner child's wildest dreams at every step. Give yourself grace and keep going.
Written by Sasha-Loriene Sasha-Loriene
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BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT 8
2020: A REFLECTION OF RESILIENCY 2020 was a very impactful year for us all. We were thrown curve balls from all angles with the COVID-19 pandemic and the continuous social injustice on the Black community, not just limited to the arts. So we're kicking off 2021 with a celebration of resiliency in our main accomplishments as not only a community of Black women artists (painters), but also as a small business and arts organization. Our timeline is as follows: Rochelle Clark, Rochelle Creative
BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT Relaunch (February) We began the year with a total rebrand and relaunch of BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT, including our website, membership, directory, and new additions. We wanted to focus more on cataloguing and curating our community while providing more outreach and opportunities, as opposed to solely social media exposure. Specifically, our goals included: • Emphasis on safe spaces (representation and security) • Importance on art resources (accessibility and application) • Inclusion in the art market as a whole (normalizing Black women artists) BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT Apparel
We wanted to align more with our vision, "when people see themselves, they believe in themselves and empower others to do the same." We had no idea that 2020 would simultaneously position our platform to share the art and stories of Black women artists to a higher degree and create and influence change in long-term efforts of change in the global art community as a whole! Cupcakes & Convos: BGWP Washington, DC Meet Up (February) We had our 4th BGWP DC Meet Up called Cupcakes & Convos at Coffy Cafe on February 22nd! We enjoyed great company, cupcakes, food, and drinks at our Meet and Greet Mixer while discussing topics planned for BGWP in the Washington, DC area, including community-engagement projects, artist and business tips, Spring and Summer beautification initiatives, and exhibition proposals. We had a wonderful time meeting everyone, exchanging gems to take home, and inspiring each other's art practices! We also incorporated feedback from this event for our first exhibition in Washington DC that was ultimately rescheduled due to COVID-19. We can't wait to see this come to fruition!
Korina Isler, Gabrialle Hunt, Sasha-Loriene, Briah Xavier, Teneisha Brown, Renalda PetitBois, and Shelly Solomon at the Cupcakes & Convos Meet Up
Mahyue Magazine Launch (March) We celebrated the first few days of Spring with the launch of Mahyue Magazine on March 24th! Mahyue Magazine is our quarterly magazine that highlights Mahyue Studios and BGWP Initiatives including member accomplishments, Muse by Marie
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community-engagement events, artist interviews, directory and more. Each subsequent issue has transformed into much more than just artist outreach and exposure, especially while adjusting to our new normal of social distancing. We've since grown to include more transformative storytelling of almost 30 Black women artists and programming while continuing to make connections with other like-minded artists, art organizations, and enthusiasts. BGWP Awards Fund Launch (May)
Traveling Grace by Erica Puckett
Ritual by Korina Isler
We introduced the BGWP Awards Fund, our community initiative that supports actual Black girls, teens, and young adults in their art endeavors - The Girls Awards (monthly e-gift cards to an art store for supplies are rewarded to girls between the ages of 6-18) and the Student Awards (academic scholarship for Spring and Fall Semesters are rewarded students between the ages of 17-21 currently enrolled, at least part-time, in a visual arts program)! Our BGWP Members and Supporters helped us achieve the following new heights in 2020: • Increasing the value of e-gift cards for each Girls Award from $50 to $75 (June) to $100 each for art supplies starting January 2021 • Increasing the number of Girls Awards given from 1 to 2 Black girls/teen painters each month (June) • Increasing the number of Student Awards given from 1 to 2 Black students/ young adults each semester (June) In 2020, we were able to grant 17 Girls Awards and 2 Student Awards to Black girl painters across the globe. The BGWP Awards Fund Recipients are as follows:
King of Pride by Simone Agoussoye
• Girls Awards: Oniya Williams, Chassity Davis, Athena Clark, Kimberly Greenhill, Ruth Hardy, Symone Terrell Newman, Loren Scott, Riley Morris, Kaylah Turner, Isabelle Loobie, Alayjah Robinson, Autumn Cureton, Erin Lally, Tyterrica Graham, Victoria Simmons, Zoe Gillespie, and Ma’at Qadaffi • Student Awards: Danae Antoine and Symphonii Smith-Kennedy A portion of every BGWP Membership fee and 100% of every donation go towards the BGWP Awards Fund. We're so excited to encourage and support our next generation of Black women artists in the making! Black Lives Matter & Art Activism (June) During the George Floyd and Breyonna Taylor protests, many members of our community were active in the Black Lives Matter movement. Along with bringing awareness to police brutality and the blatant social injustice of Black communities, many called out organizations for not supporting the Black community and demanded immediate action. We called out large art product companies who were aggressively increasing their marketing tactics
Daddy Changed The World by Ija Monet
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but were silent when it came to speaking out against social injustice against Black and Brown communities. We encouraged our audience to practice social responsibility when patronizing art stores and organizations, especially the ones that capitalize on political art activism but do not publicly support our community. We also implored prominent galleries, institutions, and organizations to both acquire artwork from Black women artists and hire more Black women in executive and managerial positions within arts administration. We helped bring accountability to those organizations and were a part of the movement that amplified artists voices, specifically Black women artists. A huge wave of support for Black artists soon followed and allowed many of our members and audience to attain more traction on their artwork!
Can't breath Amerikkka AjaA
Resource List (July) After many companies remained silent or reluctant to make a statement in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, we decided to gather information about Black woman-owned and Black-owned art companies, galleries, and organizations, in addition to art resources catered for Black women artists. We also included a list of art companies that publicly supported the movement and spoke out against police brutality in our community. We wanted to see more accountability and financial responsibility within the art industry. We encouraged other artists and small businesses to fill in the gaps and support where they could, as well.
Table by Sheneese Rohelia, Sheneese's Pieces
Partnerships (July) We partnered with organizations committed to increasing visibility for BIPOC artists and long-term systemic change for racial justice and diversity. Our goal in working with these organizations was to see more Black women artists with sustainable art practices and essential resources needed to navigate the art community. Some of our long-term partnerships included the following organizations:
Keisha Finnie
• Royal Talens North America & Royal Talens Foundation: A company that produces, markets, and commercializes art products to distributors and retailers across North America. Royal Talens focuses on art education and connects with artists in colleges, universities, ComicCon, and art retailer events to create an environment that embraces the creative spirit of the artist and the entrepreneur. Their foundation also supports international projects that stimulate creative expression through drawing and painting. • Creativebug: A crafting website of volunteers, activists, and teachers who believe the arts deserve to be shared with everyone, giving a percentage of subscription dollars to non-profits in art education. A Creativebug subscription grants unlimited access to thousands of online art and craft classes where artists can watch anytime and anywhere at their own pace. Wndrlnd Art
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3 Year Anniversary Campaign (September) We celebrated our 3 Year anniversary on September 4th with a month-long activation and weekly raffles! We highlighted our artist growth and raffled prizes to BGWP Members based on weekly themes to encourage our community to think outside the box in how we see ourselves in the art world.
Brittney S Price
Sheneese Rohelia won our 1st week prize of a customized BGWP Black Tee and 2 custom pouch bags for paint utensils. Robyn Thompson-Duong won our 2nd week prize of The Growth Journal by Addie Rawr + Show Your Art by Gita Joshi. Lauren Wallen won our 3rd week prize of watercolor sets from Beam Paints + an ArtSnacks Plus Box from ArtSnack. Korina Isler won our 4th week prize of a 1 year subscription to Creativebug. We loved encouraging our community to journal, read, try new mediums and techniques. Black Girl Ventures DC Pitch Competition (September)
Journal by Robyn Thompson-Duong
We participated in the Black Girl Ventures' 2020 Washington, D.C. Pitch Competition on September 10th along with 7 Black and Brown womanidentifying founders! Due to COVID-19 concerns, Black Girl Ventures made the competition into a virtual event. We had the opportunity to film our 3 minute pitch that allowed for increased viewership and Black Girl Ventures supporters across the globe to tune in, submit their votes, and make donations through SheRaise. Our BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT pitch won 3rd place, received over 40 votes (donations), and were able to raise over $1,500 to help scale BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT! This is such an accomplishment, as this was our Founder, SashaLoriene's first pitch competition ever that came at a very crucial time during our 2021 organizational strategic planning! What a fun experience to be a part of! We want to thank all of our amazing supporters near and far, as well as the Black Girl Venture team for making this all possible.
Sisterhood by L. Wallace
BGWP x Dominique Gallery Open Call For Black Women Artists (October) We collaborated with Dominique Gallery, a storefront and virtual gallery and arts incubator founded by Dominique Clayton, an African-American arts manager and writer, for special consideration for upcoming fairs, solo and group exhibitions, and special programming in 2021. Our goal was to invest in the growth and representation of Black women in the fine arts space, as museums, galleries, art fairs and other organizations were also assessing gaps in their rosters and staff. We received over 120 submissions for our open call. 9 talented artists, were selected, 4 of which were BGWP Members Erica Holloway, Laura Di Piazza, Robyn Thompson-Duong, and Ashley Cole. Ruth Owens, Ashley Gardner, Alexis Fudge, Alkebuluan Merriweather, and Laneigh Shirley. How amazing!
Kimlayn CUltured Art & Design
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BGWP x Realism Live Scholarship (October) We partnered with Royal Talens & Streamline Publishing to offer a scholarship program for BGWP Members. Michelle Lee and Elizabeth Hudson were selected to attend their virtual convention, Realism Live, from October 21st - 24th! Realism Live featured four days of inspiration from top masters in the field of realist painting and drawing that offered live demonstrations, discussions about art history and theory, and a nightly paint along session from top art instructors. Their goal was to welcome a more diverse and inclusive audience and ensure more emerging artists are exposed to the techniques of the masters. Scholarship winners were awarded with a free general admission ticket, year long demo playback, and a Royal Talens swagbag ($500 worth of art supplies)! Awesome! We look forward to more opportunities and exposure into new arenas in the future.
Pure Joy by Michelle Lee
BGWP x Dominique Galley Virtual Open House Sponsored by Speedball Art Supplies (December) We co-hosted a Virtual Open House with Dominique Gallery on December 18th. Dominique Clayton of Dominique Gallery extended her office hours for an information session as a continuation of the BGWP x Dominique Gallery Open Call. Artists gained insight into strengthening their art portfolios, navigating the gallery world, and sustaining their artist practice. Speedball Art Supply sponsored $40 worth of art supplies for 5 attendees in support of Black women artists! BGWP Members Shannon Scates, Melisa Brown, and Erica Holloway along with artists Nandi Jordan and Alexandra O'Neale were selected for their active participation and investment during the Q&A segment in support of Black women artists!
Untitled by Michelle Izquierdo
It was also great to hear directly from a Black woman arts administrator and gallery owner directly. Our attendees were engaged and asked insightful questions. What a way to close out 2020 on a positive note with some extra tools in our belt!
If it's one thing we learned in 2020, it's the importance of operating in alignment, focusing on community, and working together towards a common goal. We were able to cultivate opportunities for Black women and girl artists across the globe much more than years prior. For that, we celebrate our community and look forward to breaking more barriers and seeing more Black women artists with sustainable art practices!
Dynasty by Melisa Brown
Written by Sasha-Loriene
Vanessa Turner's Opening Reception
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BGWP AWARDS FUND 14
THE GIRLS AWARD
Two (2) Black girls/teen painters are awarded with a $100 e-gift card for art supplies on the 11th of each month thanks to BGWP Members and Supporters!
We encourage Black girl and teen painters (ages 6 – 18) to apply or be nominated by an adult online on our website!
*A portion of every membership fee goes towards the BGWP Award Fund, as this initiative is 100% funded by the BGWP community – members and supporters. If you are interested in directly supporting the artistic pursuits of Black girls and teen painters across the globe, please consider donating and/or joining our membership! As our membership and funding grow, the number of award distributed will also increase. Let’s be the change that we wish to see and support the next generation, our little sisters in art! W W W. B L A C K G I R L S W H O P A I N T. C O M / A W A R D S . H T M L
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OCTOBER RECIPIENT: ALAYJAH ROBINSON Grade: 5 Location: Arlington, TX
Hey! I'm Alayjah! My favorite artistic style is pour painting. I love this style because it allows me to design a unique painting. Also, you can do so many designs that it makes it fun to learn and try to do. What does being a Black girl who paints mean to you? Being a black girl who paints means a lot to me! Most of the painters I’ve learned about are white men. I would love to make a difference to show other 10 year olds that it’s okay to stand out in whatever you love to do. Our skin color should make us do more rather than blend in with the others.
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A L AY J A H RO B I N S O N
OCTOBER RECIPIENT: ISABELLE LOOBIE Grade: 12 Location: Toronto, ON Hi, I'm Isabelle! I've been an artist since kindergarten but have developed my love for painting at the beginning of high school. My favourite style to paint is semi realistic. I also enjoy painting black women and characters. What does being a Black girl who paints mean to you? Being a black girl who paints means to be honest and unapologetic inside and outside of my craft. There Is a strong power that lingers in the space of creative black women. This power gives black women the ability to do what they love while delivering such a strong message to those who really pay attention. Painting allows me to harness this power and debunk narratives society has pushed upon us.
I S A B E L L E LO O B I E
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NOVEMBER RECIPIENT: ERIN LALLY Grade: 4 Location: Harmony, FL Hi! I'm Erin! I like to paint nature but in my own abstract way. I also like to paint beaches, trees, and sunsets. I hope to be a Art History major or Law major when I go to college so I want to keep painting, practicing, and working on getting better! What does being a Black girl who paints mean to you? Being a black girl who paints means that I have a special talent. I am one of the few black people at my school, the only black girl in my grade that is also in the gifted program. Being able to paint makes me extra special. It helps me share my Jamaican culture with my class.
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E R I N L A L LY
NOVEMBER RECIPIENT: AUTUMN CURETON Grade: 12 Location: Charlotte, NC Hey! My name is Autumn. I love to paint all kinds of things. Most of my paintings have a lot to do with black girl magic, paintings for girls my age, or about mental health. I want my art to be my job or career one day because this is my therapy and something I love to do. What does being a Black girl who paints mean to you? Being a black girl that paints means that I can share my culture, my story, my life through my art. Every black girl has a story to tell and I tell mine through my paintings.
AUTUMN CURETON
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DECEMBER RECIPIENT: VICTORIA SIMMONS Grade: 12 Location: College Park, MD Nominated by: K Simmons "Tori has been painting since the summer of 2017. I noticed she has a real love for painting when we went to a paint party hosted by our church. From there she started painting on her own and her skills took off. Tori’s favorite subjects are African American women silhouettes, animal faces and nature scenes. Tori is also a straight A student in a very rigorous science and technology high school. She's involved in the theater program and participates in community service projects. She's an excellent example of how multi-faceted black girls are and can exceed at whatever they put their minds to. Tori, this award is another example of how excellent you are in everything that you do. You are smart, talented and hardworking. You can do anything you put your mind to whether it's participating in an engineering project, acting in a play, mentoring other students, or creating a work of art. Black girls are magic and I could not be more proud!" - K Simmons 20
VICTORIA SIMMONS
DECEMBER RECIPIENT: TYTERRICA GRAHAM Grade: 12 Location: High Point, NC Hey! My name is Tyterrica! I love to create in my own perspective. I love creating art that tells powerful stories that my community can relate to and benefit from - the type of stories that encourage others to not let their talents/craft go to waste. What does being a Black girl who paints mean to you? Being a black girl who paints means that I get to express my true feelings as a child of God. Being a black girl in the world is to tell myself, "I am the future, I define what pure beauty and intelligence means - a black queen who represents herself in a positive interpretation while letting others know who she is."
TYTERRICA GRAHAM
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DECEMBER RECIPIENT: MA'AT QADAFI Age: 4 Location: Silver Spring, MD Ma'at is a special Girls Award winner! We've watched her create amazing paintings with her mom all year long and she only recently turned 4 - making her our youngest award recipient! We love seeing young girls enthusiastic about art and creativity and also mothers who support them in their artistic desires! - BGWP "Ma'at, known to her family and friends as 'Mighty' is naturally creative. She has had a love for art ever since she was old enough to scribble on paper. It is so amazing to watch her sharpen her artistic skills by paying close attention to the smallest details in the world around her. She absolutely loves to draw and cut out her own doll babies and their accessories. Ma'at recently finished up her first canvas series named "Hair Paintings" just in time to share for her 4th birthday! Great job!" - Mommy
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M A 'A T Q A D A F I
DECEMBER RECIPIENT: ZOE GILLESPIE Grade: 4 Location: Dallas, TX Hello, Zoe here! I love creating abstract art the most but I'm still learning a lot. This summer, I started a college fund and have been selling my artwork and saving the money too! I want to go to college when I get older so I can make art and plan for dreams at the same time! What does being a Black girl who paints mean to you? Being a black girl who paints means that I can express myself and be creative and paint what I enjoy. I like what I do! When I work hard and try my best, I become a better artist. I really can do anything I put my mind to.
ZOE GILLESPIE
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THE STUDENT AWARD Two (2) students enrolled at least part-time in a visual arts program will receive a $750 academic award to help offset program costs for the Spring and Fall semesters! Award recipients are announced on August 11th and January 11th respectively. Great news! Gamblin Artists Colors created two batches of Limited Edition 'Equality Orange' as a response to social injustice. Within a matter of days, every tube of Equality Orange made (1,090 in all) was purchased, raising $14,715. 100% of what was spent on this color was invested in non-profit organizations that fight for equality and justice. Gamblin Artists Colors also contributed along with other patrons, increasing the total amount raised to $21,000. An additional donation of $1,000 plus $1,000 worth of oil painting materials were donated to the BGWP Awards Fund! For the Fall ‘20 and Spring 21’ terms, our Student Award recipients will each receive a $250 voucher for oil paint redeemable at Gamblin Artists Colors! Thanks BGWP Members and Supporters!
Applications for the Spring '21 term are open until on January 7th, 2021!
*A portion of every membership fee goes towards the BGWP Award Fund, as this initiative is 100% funded by the BGWP community – members and supporters. If you are interested in directly supporting the artistic pursuits of Black girls and teen painters across the globe, please consider donating and/or joining our membership! As our membership and funding grow, the number of awards distributed will also increase. Let’s be the change that we wish to see and support the next generation, our little sisters in art! 24
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THE ARTIST & HER PRACTICE 25
LEILA VICTORIN THE ARTIST PRACTICE
Artist Biography: Leila Victorin (aka Leila A Creates) is a Haitian-American, New England raised, California-based painter whose work focuses on portrayals of both current and historical Black figures and themes. Her portrait styles fluctuate between strong gestural figures and strikingly sharp uses of color meant to present Black faces in expressive and unexpected ways, mimicking both classical and pop art styles.
My worldview has been informed by the social issues surrounding my experiences as a Caribbean-American woman raised in a predominantly white environment, as well as my love for laughter and my belief that Black women can and should exist in lighthearted spaces of our own making. Coming from an environment where art wasn’t considered a viable career, I spent much of my creative journey stifling my own voice in order to convince myself and the people in my life that my art fit an imaginary construct of legitimacy. I would experiment with different styles, scales, and patterns to cope with the dissonance of pursuing a career in Speech Language Pathology for fear of failing as an artist. It wasn't until the last couple of years that I finally started asking myself what kind of work I truly wanted to make and why. Upon graduating, I buried myself into the business of art, following the work of artists who inspired me such as Lina Iris Viktor, Ashley Longshore, and Ndidi Emefiele. Their subject matter and how they approached their work in a way gave me the freedom to go back to my first love of painting portraits with a new perspective. I now have accepted my work as valuable and something that excites me. In the words of Janelle Monae, “I feel myself becoming the fearless person I have dreamt of being. Have I arrived? No. But I’m constantly evolving and challenging myself to be unafraid to make mistakes.”
Over the last five years, Leila has participated in a number of collaborations, solo exhibitions, live painting events, and mural projects in Michigan, Indiana, New York, and California, including most recently, a 224 ft mural commemorating the life of Congressman John Lewis on the site of the new Civil Rights Institute in Riverside, CA. Leila's current work challenges how we see impactful Black women by juxtaposing serious images with unconventional skin tones and bright, bold, and busy patterns. Leila Victorin photographed by René Patrick Audain 26
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"It’s okay to make work simply because you like it." – Leila Victorin, aka Leila A Creates THE STUDIO PRACTICE I would describe my process as somewhat impulsive and chaotic at first. I usually get an image in my head in the middle of the day at my job and jot down my ideas on sticky notes while gathering references during my breaks. Sometimes my ideas start with a pattern and a collection of colors, other times it starts with thinking of a person whom I’ve been inspired by. By the time I get to my studio, it's dark without much overhead lighting. Once I put my things down from my day job and change into my paint-covered house robe, I turn on my ring light, hit “play” on my reality show of choice, sketch out the shapes, and decide where the lightest lights and darkest darks will go. It feels like I’m taking one big inhale then holding my breath, so there’s an urgency to get started on the piece once the ideas form. The exhale begins the moment I put the first stroke of paint on the canvas and continue to release as the image takes shape. I do very little blending or even mixing of paint prior to starting my pieces. Most of the colors I use are straight out of the tube, with a bit of white or black mixed in smaller doses depending on the size of the piece. Every stroke eventually lands as it should.
Between the softness of my robe, the cat purring under my chair, and the sounds coming from whatever background noise, there's a lot of comfort in my process. It starts out rushed but ends in almost a meditation.
"Sojourner Truth on Specked Knit" 18"x24" x 0.5" Acrylic on Canvas. 2020. My artist mantra; “I feel myself becoming the fearless person I have dreamt of being. Have I arrived? No. But I’m constantly evolving and challenging myself to be unafraid to make mistakes.” - Janelle Monae 'Jill Scott on Green Plaid' 30" x 40" x 0.5." Acrylic on Canvas. 2020. W W W. L E I L A A C R E A T E S . C O M
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JARDAN DONEGHY THE ARTIST PRACTICE I grew up in a house imensed in the arts, as my mother was a fine artist. It was very colorful, filled with crafts, paints, music, and more. I was able to express myself creatively as I began to navigate the world. That creative freedom always kept me grounded, dreaming big and yearning for greater opportunities and higher purpose. As such, much of my artwork reflects a child-like ambition that encourages viewers to leap through every door opened for them. I call it "Black Girl Bravery," where each generation passes down a piece of themself to the next generation like a bright torch that leads the way to the future.
Artist Biography: Jardan Doneghy, is an Artist, Designer, and Brand Strategist, originally from Frankfort, Kentucky but currently residing in Atlanta, Georgia. She was raised in art - learning from her Mother, Marjorie Duncan Willis who was a former student of the Art Institute of Chicago and currently creates original work at Duncan Designs Studio.
The goal of my art is to inspire bold and confident living, for those who may not have grown up in a flourishing environment. It’s important for us to be inspired by the messages and imagery around us. I strive to create positive messages through my use of color, contrast and shapes. When people see Wild Sassaby, I want them to feel motivated to dream bigger and not only visualize but realize that anything is possible.
With a penchant for bright colors, gradients and graphic painting. ,ardan’s interest in exploring girlhood, her southern heritage, and traveling the world translates inspire 'Black Girl Bravery'. Founder of Wild Sassaby Art Brand, Jardan specializes in creating original pieces, using acrylic paint on canvas, for an array of personal and public spaces. Inspired by her own lineage, made of people, particularly women who 'served and sacrificed to open doors for future generations', the purpose of each piece is to inspire open minds to dream bigger and live more boldly and confidently. The Brand aims to continue creating products and designs that cultivate spaces of bravery. Jardan in her Wild Sassaby apparel photographed by Mike Rashad. 28
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"I can and I will. So if not me, then who?� – Jardan Doneghy of Wild Sassaby THE STUDIO PRACTICE I create within collections that represent my story at each transformative period of my journey. Considering the current times, quarantine has had a huge impact on my studio and artistic process. After moving back to my childhood home in Kentucky, I leaned into my art daily. I realized I could serve others through creating messages of strength and positivity. It allowed me time to slow down, intentionally develop a practice, and truly create something I could be proud of forever. I discovered a creative way to serve society while getting back to my roots - art and family. In terms of my current process, I have two simple rules: (1) don't be too critical and (2) share something meaningful with the world. With these in mind, I incorporate patterns and shapes that reflect bold statements of pride and presence. I use different tools to make precise measurements and textured strokes then seal the edges, giving both a design and abstract aesthetic. Afterwards, I finish each painting with a message of encouragement that serves as a consistent reminder to each Collector.
"Quarantine Dreams" Collection
Photograph of "317" The two-story white house where Jardan was raised on 317 East 3rd Street, the banks of the Kentucky River in the predominantly Black, South Frankfort neighborhood. Today, the house at "317" not only serves as an art studio for Duncan Designs and Wild Sassaby, but as a reminder to Jardan to continuously live creatively and evolve, in memory and commemoration of her ancestors.
Jardan in the "317" studio space photographed by Sean Woods W W W. W I L D S A S S A B Y. C O M
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TIFFANI GLENN THE ARTIST PRACTICE I am a huge fan of artist Ernie Barnes. I am in awe of his artistic ability to exaggerate characters in his paintings that exhibit so much movement. Whenever I feel a lack of inspiration or have an artist block, I take one look at an Ernie Barnes painting and instantly feel inspired. This is the way I want others to feel when they see my work. I have been fascinated with stylized art and found myself drawn to animated characters since a young age. This love is the main driving force behind my style as an artist, as many of my works include an exaggeration of the features and limbs. Artist Biography: Enabling viewers to look beyond the obvious in each of her portraits is the charge of Tiffani Glenn, an emerging artist building a foundation for greater notoriety and success. Through paintings of stylized caricatures with exaggerated statuesque forms and identities, Glenn embarks upon a creative journey recognizing that perseverance is the only pathway.
I focus mostly on black women and pieces that have inspiring and motivating messages behind them while also presenting black women in a positive light. I believe there are always moments in life where we may question our ability to succeed in something and lack confidence. I've learned that every art journey takes time and experience. I still have a lot to learn within my own path and am content with the process at each moment. This is why it is so important for me to paint images that promote self-love and empowerment, and messages of reassurance.
Glenn draws upon her own worldview as a woman, and her formal education in media arts and animation to generate a body of works filled with energy and range. Today, Glenn finds solace in painting images viewers often find profoundly familiar. Reflections of oneself on canvas with a distinctive and whimsical point of view. Glenn paints mostly Black women overcoming adversity exuding self-love, acceptance, confidence and empowerment in each artistic work. Still, her mission is to develop bodacious images that come across as proud and inspiring while embracing an individual diversity and difference.
Tiffani Glenn painting in her studio space 30
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"Big journeys begin with the small teps." – Tiffani Glenn THE STUDIO PRACTICE I currently use a small section in my living room as my studio space. My favorite thing about this is the convenience of being in house, especially after working at my job during the day. This way when the urge hits me to get up and create, I can simply get off my couch, find that spot two feet away, sit down, and get to work. I’m either work on a freshly opened canvas or finally finish a piece already started days before. I work better with music so my air pods and a good playlist are the major things that have to be present in order to set the tone, and perhaps a glass of wine. I normally sketch directly on the canvas and then pick a color palette as I go along using acrylic, or more recently, oil paint. I enjoy using vibrant colors to set the tone and tenor of my canvases. As I build layer after layer, I take progress shots along the way with my phone to help with perspective and composition until complete. My workspace is chaotic, with paint tubes everywhere, and my clothes are normally covered in paint smudges by this time. I then spend about 15-20 minutes reflecting about the finished piece and process that led me to that very moment.
'The Places I've Been.' 15" x 20" Oil on Canvas. 2020. When I decided I wanted to be serious about my art journey, I quickly realized it wasn’t going to be easy. I often felt discouraged but then I had to remind myself how far I have come since being on this path. Truth is, I had a lot to learn as an artist, including being okay with starting small and using my living room for studio space. I became content with taking small steps and learning how to appreciate them along the way.
(Top) 'Flowers For Mama.' 20" x 30" Acrylic on Canvas. 2019. (Left) 'Always Look Up.' 15" x 30" Oil on Canvas. 2020. W W W. T I F F A N I G A R T. C O M
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KALIAH HEKIMA THE ARTIST PRACTICE
Artist Biography: Kaliah Hekima is a visual artist and storyteller whose work strives to depict rich and unapologetic Blackness. Her artistic journey started when she was a little girl painting color by numbers, drawing on the sidewalk with chalk, and sketching and writing stories about her Bratz dolls and continued as she went on to study art and creative writing at the University of California, Riverside.Â
My work reflects my reality as a Black woman, artist, and storyteller. Systemic racism affects how I see and navigate the world and I refuse to be defined by it. After graduating college, I realized that I have to be free and fully express myself. I saw the ways Black women have historically shifted and contorted themselves to receive basic respect for spearheading many trends and successes in mainstream culture. My work depicts defiance, the daring to exist authentically as a Black woman free and unencumbered from the entrapments of an often white, straight, and narrow gaze that has never fully encompass all that I am - a grand and precious Black woman not bound by standards I did not set for myself. My work transforms with each realization and appreciation of who God really made me to be and the power that I truly have within. I paint for myself and anyone like me who is constantly seeking liberation, breaking margins, and throat-punching patriarchy and misogynoir.
During her time at UC Riverside, Kaliah developed her skills in painting, writing, and drawing. With the help of her professors, she developed technical skills but was left wanting more in the area of concept. As she was often either the only one of few Black students in her classes, Kaliah struggled to get a meaningful or challenging response from her professors or classmates regarding her work. It was her frustration with this, the lack of representation at the university, and the respectability politics that led Kaliah’s work to take a more unapologetically Black (woman) route. Currently, Kaliah is pursuing her goal of being a fulltime independent artist, merging her passions together to depict Black figures that are liberated, passionate, and at peace in their fullness.Â
Kaliah Hekima in her studio space 32
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“Let it stand." – Kaliah Hekima, aka Hekima's Studio THE STUDIO PRACTICE My studio is my safe space where I can be my fullest self. Creating is a vulnerable process for me, as I build an emotional connection to my projects. I put my feeling and essence into them as I do with anything that I love. Before I can create, I burn cleansing herbs and incense, smoke weed, and pray that my energy is right. I give gratitude and invite positivity, patience, love, and creativity. Sometimes I do this while holding my rose quartz crystal, but most times I do this while holding my arms out like I’m hugging God. I then play music - usually Willow, SZA, Choker, Solange, or 070 Shake. I like listening to artists that can’t be attributed to one genre and express a lot of passion and boldness in their singing and subject matter. I always dance as I am painting; it is automatic and I simply cannot help myself. I move, vibe, feel, and paint.
Kaliah's work space dedicated to setting positive intentions for her creative process My artist mantra is, “let it stand,” as a reminder to trust the paint to do what it is supposed to happen without too much interference. or over thinking. Even so, I sometimes cry as I paint because of all the love and awe of the fact that I can create as I do. I put my boldness into my work and let the paint stand as testament. I trust the paint as I trust myself. We work in tandem. It’s a spiritual experience that has taught me about my own sensitivity and the kind of experiences I need in order to be happy. As I explore the properties of the paint, I explore the properties of myself.
(Left) 'Blue Pooh'. 24" x 28" Oil on Hand-stretched canvas. 2015. Idea sketches for future paintings and character sketches for graphic novel W W W. H E K I M A S T U D I O. C O M
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LAJAE ESSENCE THE ARTIST PRACTICE
Artist Biography: LaJae Essence, known publicly as Poetry Jackson, is a professional artist who specializes in versatile visual arts and paintings. She is a poet, art instructor, curator and visual artist, also the Founder of Artkive Mural Group (AMG) and holds the Public Relations Chair for the Visual Arts Advancement Collective (VAAC). LaJae’s collaborative public art installations service the larger movement of introducing creative skills to children and adults through community responsive art projects, enabling them to become responsible leaders.
I grew up in a household that was very conducive for creativity. My mother was a singer and songwriter and my father was a visual artist who enjoyed working with charcoals and colored pencils. My main interest and passion stemmed from songwriting and poetry. I later fell in love with painting during a time that I was experiencing writer's block while working on an album. Specifically, I fell in love with being able to visually express the ideas that evaded me verbally. This was a new feeling that I explored much more than a hobby. The process became meditative and a reminder to be patient throughout all of the phases. As both a spoken word and visual artist, I use different spectrums of my artistic voice to heal, inspire and enlighten. My goal is to add value to the world by emphasizing creative processes and inspiring future leaders and creative communities. I firmly believe that when people are able to express the highest versions of themselves in their own unique ways, they can tap into their own spiritual gifts and inspire others. I focus on colors and fine details to reflect the human and spiritual experience and how they coexist. Communities need to truly see each other in order to create a future filled with more expression and connectivity.
In addition to her ability to teach and creatively inspire artists around the world, including her Parisian Art Museum Tour, she collaborated with photographers to display expressive Parisian body art. She has also been an honorary guest for many art shows and both private and public events. LaJae continues to aspire to remain purposeful in the art community. Her creative process empowers artists to be inspirational leaders. Her goal is to create work that stimulates dialogue about critical issues and build bridges of connection and understanding.
LaJae's ROYGBIV Public Art display on Hampton Roads by Norfolk Arts 34
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"Creativity doesn’t come from me, it channels through me. I’m just the vessel." – LaJae Essence, aka Poetry Jackson THE STUDIO PRACTICE My daily life gets pretty busy while raising my children and maintaining the business side of the arts. I keep collections of my work all throughout my home for inspiration. In the evenings when the boys are tucked in, all the emails are responded to, and I put that last check on my to-do list, my creative process begins. I have a wardrobe dedicated to painting because I use my body and clothes to blend colors. I change into something more comfortable and free and chose my workspace. I have three places throughout my home designated for creating. Each place has different lighting that evokes different emotions and helps me get into the flow. My mind has to be free of distractions and worry while creating. I like to meditate and sage my creative space to ensure the purest intentions are captured in my art. Depending on my mood, I listen to audiobooks, R&B or smooth jazz. When I’m really concentrating, I create for hours in silence truly becoming immersed in the art. After setting up my canvas and easel, I like to say "get free". It's symbolic of a higher creative source being channeled through me.
'Anahata' 'from the R-O-Y-G-B-I-V Series II. 16’ x 20.’ Mixed Media on Canvas. 2019.
Behind the scenes ‘Parisian body art photoshoot’ with photographer Jessy Marine and model Camille I give myself time and space for each piece. I believe in order to reach mastery, I must focus for extended periods of time. In order to build a consistent practice, I've crafted my own creative process that functions intuitively. Toni Morrison tribute painting. 16" x 20." Acrylic on Canvas. 2019. W W W. P O E T R Y J A C K S O N . C O M
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MYLIN STOKES KENNEDY THE ARTIST PRACTICE
Artist Biography: MyLin is an abstract expressionist and paint instructor currently based in Orange County, California. It was not until it was introduced as her junior year elective course at Hampton University, that art, and moreover painting, had become the passion of her life. After years of prioritizing her psychology and education degrees, growing her family and learning her way in the world, MyLin was finally able to pursue her art full time in 2020, realizing that front of a blank canvas is where she finds a world of opportunities.
At the start of my relationship with art, learning the fundamentals and building a foundation, my interest sparked from mixing beautiful hues together almost effortlessly. I recently noticed that so much of my early work was experimental, geometric and bursting with colors - mostly assignments that turned prized possessions. As time went on and I began to develop a voice in the strokes, I realized some of those harsh lines stayed while others faded away and some of the colors remained while others muted. Life for me was rearranging the work and leaning more into my craft, especially during the most supported moments of my life. New collections and series pour out of me at the helm of my marriage and even now as we bring another baby into this world. I realized that in those moments of support, when other weights are lifted, you can feel free enough to find inspiration in the world around you. Currently, my art reflects the things I'm motivated and inspired by, including the shape and essence of my wife, the bold beauty of the sunset, and the depth of the mind and soul. If I always work to curate a life that surrounds me with the inspiration that feeds me, I know my art will always be at it’s best because it’s true and authentic.
With acrylic as her medium of choice, MyLin best represents herself experimenting with her palette knife and brushwork techniques. She looks to create broad abstract work with long strokes, bold colors and rich texture, always finding a way to intentionally communicate her interpretation of nature, Black culture and the psychology of humanity. Currently, MyLin owns Stokes Kennedy Art Studio where she focuses on creating custom art and hosting art experiences that encourage the community to support creativity. When she is not painting in her home studio, she is raising two boys, Kameron and Lennox, with her wife Lindsay. 36
'Radiant Gems.' 24" x 36" (each). Acrylic on Canvas. 2020. W W W. S T O K E S K E N N E D Y. C O M / A R T
"I can create, develop, affirm myself and ultimately grow." – MyLin Stokes Kennedy THE STUDIO PRACTICE I don't have an entire room dedicated to artmaking yet, as space is limited living with my wife, 2 sons, and puppy. However, a lack of space has never stopped me before so I make do with what I have - a quaint little patio where my easel, small table, and art cart are set up. This is where I paint larger pieces and get to enjoy fresh air. I store my paint in the closet nearby so it's pretty convenient for me. My wife also arranged our dining room to be an indoor studio so I can work on my smaller pieces inside. As a stay-at-home mother with a 1 year old, I have found it very important to set the vibe and intention before I paint. When my son is awake and teething, he often wants to be held so he's my partner in crime while I paint during the day. Once the baby arm-to-crib transition is complete, I light a little lemongrass incense and sage the area to clear off any annoyance, distractions, and bacteria. This is a must in order to center myself especially at night when I paint by myself to make the most of each moment he is sleeping. I meditate by reminding myself who I am, what I like about myself, and what I want to say. I then set up my work area, select my tools and color palette, and focus on creating one layer at a time.
Mylin Stokes Kennedy painting with her son
Works in progress entitled 'Psychakra'. Acrylic on Canvas. My artist mantra: "I am where I need to be and I am who I need to be in this very moment. The answers I am looking for are already within." - Sol Affirmations by Karega & Felicia Bailey 'Moody Sunset No. 1.' Acrylic on Canvas. 2020. W W W. S T O K E S K E N N E D Y. C O M / A R T
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TIFFANY SKYERS THE ARTIST PRACTICE
Artist Biography: Tiffany Skyers has been interested in the arts since her youth. Her creative influences have been current events, personal lifestyle changes, and her family's ethnic background. Inspired by her Jamaican lineage, her palette tends to use vibrant and bold colors, patterns, and foliage. Her desire to put her world on paper has been encouraged by her family, teachers, and mentors. In college, Tiffany began to network with her surrounding art communities of Charlotte, NC and Savannah, GA. She was invited to participate in events as a featured live painter and vendor for smaller organizations and businesses, graduating from Savannah College of Art and Design with her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts, Communicative Design. Since then, she has been developing an online presence that has lent hand in her work being requested on a national and international scale.
As a painter, my self-expression has always been a priority. My pieces have allowed me to organize my thoughts and work out my problems. As I paint, I tend to think more about how I communicate my emotions and less about how I will be perceived as an individual. I focus on my purpose - healing others through my art the way that I have been healed through creating it. My heart shining through a canvas creates a vulnerability not only within me but conjured within my viewers. My favorite audience has always been younger adults, ages 16 to 30, as young people are most likely to have muffled voices. I use political and pop culture references, social and economic struggles, as well as illustrate emotional instability such as anxiety, depression, panic, and mania. These topics are often dealt with hardest at pivotal times in life, your late teens through 20s. Based on life experience, and watching others, this is the time many are “finding� themselves and settling into the person they will become. My goal is to create an environment that aides in the transitional time for at risk youth. I want to provide them with opportunities that will direct them towards a more positive journey. In vague terms, my art will be used as a mode of communication to their peers and social workers, but also an uplifting path for the future.
With her increase in demand, Tiffany hopes to someday achieve her goal of opening a teen club catering to art therapy for at risk youth. Tiffany Skyers and merchandise photographed by Audrey Rouzer of Audrey Rouzer Photography 38
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"Paint what makes you happy, because one day your art might inspire or heal someone the way it did you." – Tiffany Skyers THE STUDIO PRACTICE I tend to start every project with a doodle. Doodling allows me to vomit out my ideas and then go back in and refine them as the image is developing. I love to use symbolism in my pieces, vibrant colors, and a variety of textures. This allows for a sensory overload and captivation in every piece. My goal with each work is always to first shock the viewer with the overall image, and then suck them in to view the finer details. Most symbols have common meanings, while others may be more specific to my feelings towards them. My choice of colors has always been vibrant because I feel as if they echo my reach for joy while being excellent tools in reflecting a chaotic state of mind. Lastly, I develop a sense of visual texture as I layer my tints to shades. I begin with a piece color blocking with lighter colors, then applying shades. to allow more flexibility to make mistakes. Then after the darks are placed, I add in highlights and detailed markings. Every painting then ends being titled and sealed with the kiss of my signature. Titling at the end always makes me happiest, because then, there is no box that I've isolated my piece into.
My studio space has always been my haven, no matter how big or small. I love to have candles burning, good music playing, and air circulating. I surround myself with my artwork and that of artists that inspire me, which are mounted on my walls. These things encourage positive energy and a peaceful state of mind because having a clear head stops me from overthinking ideas and concepts. Having my inspiration aligning my walls and shelves helps motivate me to push myself further with each new piece I create.
(Top) 'Helianthus.' 20” x 20.” Acrylic on Gallery Canvas. 2020. (Left) 'Miss Amanda Creates.' 18” x 24." Acrylic on Gallery Canvas. 2020. W W W.T I F F A N Y S K Y E R S . C O M
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DIRECTORY 40
UNITED STATES ALABAMA Tangela Lockett – Birmingham, AL
Healing through art on canvas, illustration, drawing, and paint parties
KBJ Canvases – Alabaster, AL
Acrylic and watercolor artist inspired by life, music, and photography
ARIZONA Jeré Alexandra – Scottsdale, AZ
Painting emotions with direct vulnerability and expression
ARKANSAS Adaja Cooper – Little Rock, AK
Acrylic and oil painter specializing in portraiture
Heart Odyssey | Amber Michelle – Little Rock, AK Traveling artist, photographer, and harpist sharing her creative journey
Cloudy Days Can't Stop My Shine by Marie Alexander, Muse by Marie (TX)
CALIFORNIA Ebezalel Art – Antioch, CA Multi-faceted, award-winning artist specializing in oil painting, traditional drawing, digital graphics, and illustration Waterscissorspaper – Los Angeles, CA Mixed-media artist and sculpturalist inspired by the raw emotions of joy, sadness, and imperfection Ashley Cole – Los Angeles, CA Contemporary abstract artist that uses acrylic paint, oil pastels, and texture
Gray Area by Ashley Cole (CA)
mediums to convey thoughts and emotions onto canvas Michelle Kaye Art – Pasadena, CA Fine artist influenced by fashion and design Abreesha* Art Gallery – Riverside, CA Contemporary artist specialized in realism, surrealism, and abstract expressionism Kimlayn Cultured Art & Design – Pasadena, CA Multi-passionate artist inspired by philanthropy and love of people and culture Stokes Kennedy Art Studio – Fountain Vallery, CA
Abstract aexpressionist and educator based in Orange County, CA
Leilaa Creates – Moreno Valley, CA
Contemporary artist who specializes in patterns and portraits
BH Art –Los Angeles, CA
Visual artist who incorporates her feelings and emotions into each piece
Brittney S Price - Los Angeles, CA
Expressional artist specializing in bright and colorful characters, as well as floral designs Amandla by Miya Wells (VA) W W W . B L A C K G I R L S W H O P A I N T. C O M / F I N D
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CONNECTICUT Carinista Art – Middletown, CT Self-love artist that combines fantasy, abstract, and portraiture DELAWARE WndrlndArt – Newark, DE
Abstract painter and lover of all things color and wearable art
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Korina Isler – Washington, DC
Untitled by Michelle Kaye (CA)
Mixed-media artist who focuses on the experience of being a creator and
human Hilltop Wright – Washington, DC
Graphic designer and freelance artist specializing in marketing and crafts Sabiyha Prince, Beauty and Justice – Washington, DC
Abstract artist who specializes in water color and acrylics FLORIDA Bella B – Gainesville, FL
Multi-talented painter sharing her voice through art Miss Sam I Am – Lehigh Acres, FL Oil and acrylic portrait artist that teeters between pop art and realism Alyrical – Boynton Beach, FL Legally blind visionaty creating with purpose and sharing her truth Amber Arts – Palm Beach, FL
by Muse by Jennessa Art (MA)
Oil and acrylic portrait artist that teeters between pop art and realism The Color Bubble by @LeARTizan – Plantation, FL Self-taught artist celebrating the female form and experience and owner of a mobile paint studio Art by Tiffani G – Riverview, FL Contemporary artist using vibrant colors and techniques to portray African American women GEORGIA Marra Vibes – Atlanta, GA Mixed media artist in love with color King Beazus – Brunswick, GA Visual artist whose unique eye and love for all things unusual helped form her unwavering bond with art Bri Simpson Art – Decatur, GA Contemporary painter based in Atlanta exploring womanhood and spirituality Christina Arnold– Atlanta, GA Lover of the arts specializing in abstract and expressive art for kids
Untitled by Melisa Brown (NC) 42
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GEORGIA (CONT'D) Wild Sassaby – Atlanta, GA Abstract artist inspiring Black girls and those who support them to live BOLD, confident Lives ILLINOIS Art by D. Linzy – Chicago, IL Abstract artist specializing in pop, African-American, and cartoon art Works by Ping – Glen Carbon, IL Self-taught artist who empowers people through her creations Random Encounters by Betty Refour (MA)
SUB | URBAN – Chicago, IL Artist and brand that provides custom hand-printed and orginal designs on vegan and cruelty-free apparel LOUISIANA Gabrielle Monae Art – Baton Rouge, LA Abstract artist based in Lousiana specializing in 3D glass portraits MARYLAND Queen Designs, LLC – Oxon Hill, MD Illustrator who provides majestic, innovative, and high-quality design services Kosmokreationz – Glen Burnie, MD Abstract artist who specializes in resin functional art Sasha-Loriene – Bowie, MD Contemporary artist who captures her thoughts, feelings, and interpretation of the world in every piece using bold colors, shapes, and subject matter
Lucy's Fighting Spirit by Sabiyha Prince (DC)
ToyaBeCreating – Oxon Hill, MD Artist and paint party instructor specializing in Afrocentric art Creative Visions by Shay – Baltimore, MD Artist, designer, seamstress, and event planner bringing visions to life Shannon Scates – Waldorf, MD Artist healing by any creative means necessary and celebrating YOU Philly Girl Artist – Rockville, MD Oil and acrylic artist specializing in portrait realism and Black art Michelle Izquierdo – Germantown, MD Abstract artist, muralist, and instructor creating artwork with bold colors ad hints of texture MASSACHUSETTS Jennessa Art – Worcester, MA Painter based in central Massachusetts who specializes in portraits Robyn Thompson Duong – Boston, MA Contemporary realist painter specializing in figurative art
W W W . B L A C K G I R L S W H O P A I N T. C O M / F I N D
Surf by Akaimi Davis (TX)
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MICHIGAN Art By Char – Flint, MI
Urban artist spreading exposing local youth to creative expression
Tispy Easel Events With Reanna – Detroit, MI
Mobile paint party servicing the local Detroit area. Ask for Reanna!
NEVADA Hekima's Studio by Liah the Artist – Las Vegas, NV
Unapologetic artist creating colorful artwork with fantasy narratives
NEW HAMPSHIRE When I Think Of You by Ebezalel Art (CA)
Laura Di Piazza Art and Design – Hanover, NH
Abstract artist and professional calligrapher based in the New England area
NEW JERSEY Art By Tiffany of Picasso Play Dates – Piscataway, NJ Artist providing fun-filled sophisticated paint events, original art, and merchandise Cy's Canvas – Seaside Heights, NJ
Abstract artist and photographer who expresses her visions through painting
Pieces of Kaylaa – East Orange, NJ Multimedia artist who creates one of a kind paintings, ceramics, and resin art Richards.worx – Montclair, NJ Jamaican-born artist specializing in acrylic portraits and mixed-media pieces inspired Chocolate Expressions by Abreesha Art Gallery (CA)
by Black women E. Puckett Art – Newark, NJ Mixed-media artist finding beauty in everyday objects NEW YORK Blanche Eden – New York, NY Independent musician, abstract painter, and illustrator who creates reflections of herself, shapes, colors, and nature SCLSCM VIBES – Brooklyn, NY Surrealist artist whose artwork is a reclamation of her body and voice through poetry, music, and layers of acrylic Latifah ShaDaé – Brooklyn, NY Artist who enjoys making places bright and colorful with her paintings, prints, murals, classes and charity events Kadiatou Coulibaly – Brooklyn, NY Artist, cosplayer, and entrepreneur using acrylic and mudcloth patterns to tell stories Chx.8 – Brooklyn, NY Abstract artist who creates depictions of Black women JFA Designs LLC – East Islip, NY
Still I'll Rise by Waterscissorspaper (CA)
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Abstract artist who specializes in paintings & wearable art
W W W . B L A C K G I R L S W H O P A I N T. C O M / F I N D
NORTH CAROLINA Art of Jaz by J.McFadden – Charlotte, NC
Multi-faceted artist specializing in acrylic painting and black art Melisa Brown – Charlotte, NC
Abstract artist specializing in fluid art, acrylic pouring and alcohol inks
AjaA – Kenersville, NC
Contemporary painter who specializes in abstract realism
Stacie Monday – Dallas ,TX Political and cultural artist focusing on African-American art and Black women Art by Tenaj – Charlotte, NC Artist delving deeper into the depths of her creativity Tiffany Skyers – Charlotte, NC Artist inspired by her Jamaican lineage who incorporates vibrant and bold colors, patterns, and foliage OHIO
Camel by Blanche Eden (NY)
Veronica Leigh – Cleveland, OH
Mixed-media abstract artist who enjoys incorporating alcohol ink and glass in her
artwork Gabrielle Ricci Art – Canal Winchester, OH
Digital, acrylic and watercolor artist who focuses on ethnic pieces that celebrate
her Barbadian and Puerto Rican heritage
OKLAHOMA Maya Perez – Oklahoma City, OK
A Few Bites by Vanessa Turner (BM)
Mixed media nature, female empowerment, and whimsical design artist and
cosplayer Betty and Rose Refour – Oklahoma City, OK Artist sisters offering an eclectic assortment of original art, note cards, and jewelry OREGON L. Wallace Artist – Hillsboro, OR Abstract portrait artist focused mainly on the human form PENNSYLVANIA Stormy Things Studio – Philadelphia, PA Ingenious artist creating outlandish avant-garde original acrylic paintings JY Originals (Janel Young) – Pittsburgh, PA Traveling artist specializing in acrylic, oil and wood paintings, including murals and public projects Keisha Finnie – Lancaster, PA Artist expressing her thoughts and feelings surrounding self-identity Mixed Feeling by Cy's Canvas (NJ) W W W . B L A C K G I R L S W H O P A I N T. C O M / F I N D
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SOUTH CAROLINA Art Creation By Nila – Mauldin, SC
Artist creating against all odds and celebrating Black women
Ija Monet – Columbia, SC Self-taught artist who incorporates portraits, culture, and symbols into her art TENNESSEE Inferno Artistry by Brittany J. – Nashville, TN Multi-talented painter and illustrator who utilizes acrylic and gouache paint TEXAS Sheneese’s Pieces – Houston, TX Unprocessed Mind by Chx.8 (NY)
Abstract artist all about freedom of art creativity and expression with zero rules Love Lisha Nicole – Missouri City, TX Visual artist (acrylic) and published illustrator (digital art) who loves to create Nugget Pop – Dallas, TX Portrait artist who paints fun and colorful art depicting women, men, and children of the diaspora as the beautiful beings we are, one brush stroke at a time Inspiringlee – Arlington, TX Artist who inspires and uplift to create feel good art for the soul Aboveallels3– Dallas, TX Artist specializes in realism with an animated abstract concept Muse by Marie – Austin, TX Portraiture and figurative artist who enjoys neutral palettes, minimal aesthetic and all things feminity DKMC ART – Houston, TX
Basking II by Maria Allott (TX)
Realist artist that is always up for a challenge who utilizes multiple mediums Maria Allott – Dallas, TX Illustrator and muralist who incorporates her love for history, geography, and spirituality into her identity as a painter Akaimi Davis – Austi, TX Abstract artist inspired by Black, African, Latino, and Indigenous cultures Lauren Luna – Houston, TX Master of Fine Arts based in Houston specializing in urban landscapes VIRGINIA Miya Wells Art – Stafford, VA Portrait artist paying homage to childhood strength, beauty, and faith Art by Alexis Kourtney – Dumfries, VA Visual artist who highlights the beauty of Black women Addie Rawr – Norfolk, VA Artist and illustrator creating inspirational artwork for Black women and families Art by Kheila J – Richmond, VA
Still Blue by Nugget Pop (TX)
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Abstract artist creating “art in motion” through mixed media
W W W . B L A C K G I R L S W H O P A I N T. C O M / F I N D
VIRGINIA (CONT'D) Simone Agoussoye – Arlington, VA Artist who is honing her skills in portrait artistry Art by Zhané – Hampton, VA Artist and illustrator who creates to uphold black love, black unity, and black value Poetry Jackson – Norfolk, VA Poet, performer, and visual artist who enjoys creating inspiration art that empowers artists to be leaders in their community WASHINGTON 4 E V R A M B E R – Seattle, WA Abstract expressionist who loves colors, layers, balance, and texture
Alphabet Soup by Sheneese's Pieces (TX)
BERMUDA Vanessa Turner – Hamilton, BM Creative coach and landscape, portraiture, and botanical artist inspired by her AfroCaribbean culture
IRELAND Rosemarie Kamana– Cork, IE Artist inspired by nature, her native Africa, travels, storytelling and design
ITALY Brionya James Creations – Pordenone, IT God taught artist reflicing Black divinity, love, reality, and appreciation derived from
Nope by Leila A Creates (CA)
her spirit
NORWAY Alba-tsehaye Art – Elverum, Hedmark East African (Eritrean) artist based in Norway inspired by tradition, culture, and life
UNITED KINGOM Chibuzor Ejims – Manchester, ENG Inspired artist promoting black lives matters and equality for all races Art by Victoria Rain @ Ria Rain – London, ENG Abstract artist telling imperfect stories through art Rochelle Creative – London, ENG Creative studio and artist specializing in minimalist abstract design, oil paintings, and illustrations Create by Hilltop Wright (MD)
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SPECIAL THANKS 48
PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS
Thanks to our amazing members, partners, team, and supporters including Megan Robson, Alexis Loader, Lauren Berret, and Blair Duckworth for their donations of $125 or more to the BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT Awards Fund. What once started as a sassy idea, has blossomed into something more worthwhile that positively impacts the lives of Black women and girl artists. When one of us wins, we literally all win! I encourage you all to move with intention and reside outside of your comfort zone now more than ever! Thank you for joining this movement! – Sasha-Loriene
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BLACK GIRLS WHO PAINT W I N T E R 2020/2021
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ISSUE 4
