Fat Time is part of my series featuring green everyday people, a collection where the use of green symbolizes a world where race appears incidental. Yet, this is only part of the story. My work is deeply rooted in Black culture and experiences, and this series reflects that foundation in a subtle, yet profound way.
The choice of green was intentional, a way to explore the idea that race, while ever-present, doesn’t solely define the essence of the individuals I depict. Instead, the vibrant green tones create a sense of unity and commonality, allowing the viewer to focus on the shared human experience. However, beneath this layer of abstraction, the influence of Black culture is unmistakable, grounding the work in a rich tapestry of history, identity, and resilience.
In this particular piece, I bring together a collage of people fully immersed in a rhythmic moment. They are absorbed in the sounds of jazz, a genre deeply entwined with the Black experience, symbolizing creativity, freedom, and resistance. The figures are depicted in the midst of this musical moment, lost in the rhythm and the atmosphere it creates.
The painting captures a scene where time seems to stand still, allowing the viewer to witness a shared experience of joy, reflection, and presence. Through the interplay of color, form, and sound, I aim to convey the profound connection that music fosters within a community. This piece invites you to step into a moment where the physical and the emotional merge, where cultural identity is celebrated, and where the power of music transcends boundaries, bringing people together in a harmonious and timeless dance.
