Why Collage?

The world of collage art holds a profound significance for me because it deeply intertwines with the ingenious resourcefulness of Black (African-American) women who once wove quilts from leftover fabric, collected over the seasons to prepare for the biting cold of Southern winters. What began as a practical necessity transformed into vibrant tapestries, embodying boundless creativity and upholding the rich tapestry of Black culture.

The enduring legacy of quilt-making in Black history serves as the driving force behind my journey in crafting collages. I find striking parallels between the traditional art of African-American quilting and the contemporary realm of collage: both celebrate the use of vivid, abstract designs, and visual narratives. This connection resonates with me as a Black woman. It's a bridge that links my artistic process to the ancestry that flows through my veins. Guided by this ancestral thread, I gather fragments from magazines, snippets from travel books, fabric swatches, or any materials at hand, arranging them meticulously into collages that bear messages from the heart.

My earnest aspiration is for those who encounter my work to see the meaning in it. As a self-taught artist, my journey is a heartfelt tribute to the lineage of Black women who channeled their creative energy into sustaining their families and communities.

The transformation of discarded fragments into radiant, purposeful art speaks volumes about the indomitable spirit of marginalized communities throughout history. My collages are not merely visual expressions; they are vessels that bridge the past and present, allowing viewers to delve into history, culture, and activism.