14 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, March 22, 2019
The Tribune | Weekend | 15
Friday, March 22, 2019
art
Emerging from the chrysalis
Mixed-media artist pays tribute to the strength of black women By ALESHA CADET
B
| Tribune
Features Reporter
utterflies may just be the key to understanding Domonique Jacobs’ journey as an artist. These often colourful and delicate insects have served as an inspiration to her for many years now, not just because of their beauty, but also because of their unique life cycle. “I am particularly known for my affinity for butterflies and in some way it has been my niche in the local art community,” Domonique told Tribune Weekend speaking of her ‘Bfly by Design’ brand. “I am fascinated by their transformation process; the idea that a being can start out as something but be re-born as something else. It has inspired me in the growth of my craft through persistence, consistency and repetition. Every day is a lesson in how I can be better at what I truly love.” Over the years, the young artist has struggled with the decision whether to fully commit herself to arts or focus more on cosmetology, an area in which she is skilled and was ultimately more comfortable in. “I would take on selected art commissions for clients when I could, but I lacked the confidence needed to put myself out there even when I received such positive feedback. My comfort zone was just that, comfortable, but
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it left no room for growth or opportunities,” she explained. It was not until taking part in an art show that Domonique received a much needed boost of confidence. Asked to highlight of one her favourite artworks created for the ‘Bfly by Design’ brand, she named a piece titled “Woman”, based on the Proverbs 31 about the Virtuous Woman. The piece is a mixed-media portrait of a woman in profile, including her hair which is braided into words of empowerment and affirmation. “Words such as ‘strong’, ‘powerful’, ‘purpose-driven’, ‘phenomenal’ and ‘Godfearing’ fit the woman’s head like a crown. The piece is particularly special to me because it was purchased by a woman who is battling breast cancer, and she said the piece reaffirmed her relationship with Christ,” she said. “Another one of my pieces, entitled ‘Melanin Absorbs Light’, beckons us to appreciate the black human being in all aspects, not just physically, but mentally, culturally and spiritually,” said Domonique. This piece, she said, speaks to the story of the black woman and all of her strength, devotion and intelligence, “encompassed in her physical beauty of melanin.” The
canvas shows a black woman with a kinky afro embellished with butterflies, embracing herself as she bathes in the light of the sun. Domonique said her interest in art was cultivated by her father. She remembers when he showed her a portrait that he had drawn of her mother. The realism and detail of the drawing leapt off the worn-down cardboard which served as the canvas, and from that moment she was hooked. “From there it was crafting straw handbags, then painting my grandmother’s hibiscus tree in our backyard. However, it was during college that my passion was nurtured into something more. I was given the opportunity to work with many great Bahamian artists like John Cox, Dereck Paul, Sue Bennett-Williams and Antonius Roberts. For the next four years I explored all aspects of the art realm, like painting, ceramics, crafts, hair-styling, drawing and calligraphy. I found that the paintbrush became an extension of me. For that reason I would consider myself a mixed-media artist,” she said. Since receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education from the College of the Bahamas in 2011, her work has been exhibited in several art galleries, shows and events. Her work has been showcased at the Doongalik Studios, New Providence Arts and
Antiques, and the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. “If anyone is moved by my work then I am truly grateful. Whether it is a positive or negative reaction, I always find it gratifying to evoke emotion from people because it tells me that what I am doing matters. I hope to help empower others to be bold and confident; to always be themselves and appreciate their individuality without seeking validation from anyone,” she said. “I want my fellow creative minds to be inspired, and to continue sharing their gifts with the world. When people see my work, I pray that they obtain whatever they need from it, but more importantly I want people to see me. My work is my testimony. I always want the leaving message to be that once you trust in God, He will direct your path and open doors beyond what you can fathom, always.” She believes art is such a powerful form of expression that it can benefit both the artist and those that experience it. For her personally, it has not only given her confidence, it has also provided her with peace of mind and new, unexpected experiences. Art has also her allowed her to express herself when words are insufficient.
“It has been a great tool for me to meet new people and network with the world. I receive so much positive feedback from both men and women. However, the majority are usually women who feel empowered, or find some way to connect a piece to their own personal experiences. I am constantly encouraged to produce more. Constructive criticism is always welcome as it pushes me to fine-tune my craft as much as I can. For this reason, I keep fellow artists I admire in my circle so that I can receive feedback, because ultimately I am an artist and I need encouragement, however it comes,” she said. Domonique is currently developing a solo art show set for this year, and is very excited about the preparation process. She is also hoping to do some collaborative work with local artists for various events, as well as participate in this year’s Art Basel to take place in Miami, Florida. Those interested in her work can follow ‘Bfly by Design’ on social media – Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Currently, her work can be purchased via the website redbubble. com which offers some of her art printed on a variety of accessories. For commission work or other business inquiries, Domonique can be contacted via e-mail at bflybydesign@ gmail.com.
Domonique Jacobs in front of her painting “Woman”, inspired by Proverbs 31. A piece inspired by the women of Wakanda from “Black Panther”.
Domonique’s work is also used for prints on pillows and other accessories.