Layers of a shared journey
The Journey stretches across the wall in bands of cream, tan, and brown. Narrow brownish red accents and dark marks interrupt those earthy layers. From a distance, the horizontal composition settles into a steady rhythm. Up close, the surface reveals overlapping marks, exposed texture, and small changes within each band.
Sponge, hands, and human history
I used grattage, sponge work, and finger painting to make The Journey. To me, working with sponges and my hands connects to how art began. Those methods brought the act of making back to something direct and physical.
I painted the piece vertically to symbolize gravity, but I display it horizontally because that is how I see us encountering life every day. The orientation is part of its meaning: how the painting was made and how we live with it offer two different ways of looking.
For me, The Journey represents the journey of the human race and how far we have all come. Symbolizing the journey of immigrants, slaves and all humans who have simply traveled throughout time. It is a shared story, not just my own. The layers and marks give that idea a surface you can spend time with, without asking every viewer to find the same thing.
Give the layers room
When a room needs warmth without a loud burst of color, let the tan and cream lead. When you want a stronger accent, pick up the red in a small piece nearby. Dark wood can echo the deeper marks; a pale wall gives the layered surface space to stand on its own.
Keep exploring
You can find live conversations about my artwork on FREEBRD's Facebook page, where I share more of the stories behind the work.
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