I want Black people to realize that we are the original people, the first people to populate the
earth and that we created everything first. In terms of visual art, we have an ancient history in
creating painting, sculpture, textiles, drawing, and vessels that transcend hundreds of
thousands of years.
What three artists share a creative kinship with your vision?
Cultures rather than artists share a creative vision with me. Primarily, I look to our ancestors to
inspire me and give me the strength and belief that I can do and create something. I share the
creative vision of the Yoruba and Igbo of Nigeria and the Songye people of the Democratic
Republic of the Congo.
What genres of music do you like most, and when do you listen?
I am a Motown music era girl: Smokey Robinson, The Temps, Gladys Knight, Marvin Gaye, etc.
I listen at night when I’m in a relaxed mellow mood.
What keeps you inspired?
A new day, because it’s a new beginning, a new challenge. The opportunity to learn and
experience a new technique, to create something new, something untried.
