Artist Statement

"All The Things" is a vibrant self-portrait that serves as the visual cornerstone for my musical album of the same title, exploring themes of liberation and what it means to fall in love while at intersections of Black and queer in America. As a visual artist, my practice often centers on portraiture, particularly self-portraits, and a consistent integration of nature elements infused with the imaginative spirit of Afrofuturism. My color palettes are intentionally vivid and harmonically balanced, aiming to create a visually pleasurable and impactful experience for the viewer.

This painting depicts me in a white fur coat and all-white matching attire, crouched over a reflective body of water. The backdrop, a dramatic sunset over distant mountains, casts a rich, radiant glow, painting the sky in hues of intense pink, purple, orange, and yellow. Scattered throughout the composition are bubbles, symbolizing a newfound sense of joy and playfulness—a testament to entering a more liberating and authentic phase of my life.

Unlike many of my previous self-portraits, where my gaze often averted the viewer, "All The Things" presents a direct and confrontational stare. This intentional choice serves as a powerful declaration: "I am who I am, and I am here." It embodies a fearless embrace of my identity and a defiance towards those who would deny it. This directness mirrors the core ethos of the album, which celebrates love, the exhilaration of a first relationship, and the journey of becoming more openly proud of who I am.

Through this artwork, I invite viewers into a meticulously crafted utopia—a world where Black queer identity is not only affirmed but celebrated with unbridled joy and freedom. It is a visual prelude to the sonic landscape of "All The Things," aiming to pull the audience into a realm where they can experience the profound liberation and vibrant fun I seek to embody and share.