Through my art I am able to process my emotions, interpret my surroundings, and tell stories that words alone cannot express. As a child, I have always had trouble speaking my mind or standing up for myself and as a result I began to write and draw what I wanted to say. My work is deeply inspired by heavy emotions, my environment, and the experiences I witness everyday. Whether it’s a song I hear in a store, a scent, a place, or a stranger on a corner, the painting is almost instantly instilled in my mind. Painting allows me freedom to say what I feel and preserve memories in a beautiful way. One of my favorite pieces that I have created is a portrait of my younger brother. In the midst of an artist block he happened to be standing in a position with a certain expression on his face that I had to capture, and from there my art began to excel. I completed the portrait within 4 hours, and it was the most intense and emotional 4 hours I had ever experienced with my art. Through the portrait I was able to capture the innocence and connection to the belongings of children such as stuffed animals and toys. Using vibrant colors I emphasized the color and vibrancy of being a child. It reminded me that art has the power to freeze time and make a person stop and appreciate a moment that may go unrecognized. My journey as an artist has opened doors to opportunities that could feel out of reach for artists of my age and background. I have had the privilege of teaching art within my community, encouraging children and aspiring artists to explore their own creativity and express themselves. Watching children my age create for themselves freely, and not follow the set plans of what their parents and guardians have for them like mine had for me gives me so much more to look forward to. As a child I was always told what I was going to be or who I had to be, and I followed along with that narrative, but as of today I have been able to create my own path. Another special experience I’ve had recently was being able to paint for the WNBA. It was unexpected but I was very grateful for the opportunity, and praise that I was given for my art. There I was reminded to not only continue to create my own path, but to remember that anybody could be watching and waiting to give you an opportunity. After college, my ultimate dream is to own my own gallery in Chicago, where I can showcase my work, uplift emerging artists, and promote the richness and diversity of black art. I also want to continue working with children, to inspire future artists and creatives by teaching free classes in my studio.