Blue Eyes is a painting I created during my time as the artist in residence at the Masterworks Foundation in Bermuda. The island’s breathtaking beauty, from its crystal-clear waters to its vibrant landscapes, deeply inspired me. However, what captivated me most were the women of Bermuda—their elegance, strength, and presence. I wanted to celebrate their beauty while paying homage to the omnipresent blues of the sea and sky that frame the island’s daily life.
Color plays an integral role in my artistic practice. The blues in Blue Eyes are not just aesthetic choices but symbolic ones. Blue, in many African and Caribbean traditions, is associated with spirituality, protection, and the ocean—an element both nurturing and formidable. The ocean, particularly in the context of the African diaspora, holds a layered history. By immersing the subject in shades of blue, I aimed to weave these histories into the portrait, making it more than just a visual tribute but a reflection on legacy and identity.
My approach to figurative painting has always been about more than capturing a moment—it’s about telling a story. In Blue Eyes, I wanted to emphasize the gaze, a recurring theme in my work. The eyes, particularly in Black portraiture, hold an intensity that speaks of lived experience, wisdom, and defiance against erasure. Whether my subjects are dancing, caught in contemplation, or engaged in quiet moments of connection, their presence is undeniable. The woman in Blue Eyes holds that same energy, her expression both serene and commanding.
Working in Bermuda offered a unique opportunity to explore how the island’s cultural landscape intersects with my broader themes of Black identity and community. Though Bermuda is a small island, it has a rich and complex history shaped by African, Caribbean, and European influences. This blend of cultures, stories, and traditions echoes throughout my work, as I strive to honor the nuances of Black experiences across different geographies. Blue Eyes is a continuation of that exploration—a painting that speaks to place, people, and the power of presence.
Ultimately, this piece is a tribute to the women of Bermuda, to the endless blues that surround them, and to the enduring spirit of the African diaspora that informs my art.
