A Bash
The Contemporary Arts Network Residency 23'
Channeling the global commonality of carnival through the diaspora. In "A Bash" the set of masquerade aims to birth an identity for the celebration of diasporic descendants in Virginia history and ideas of the future through traditional festival.
Mask: Home By The Sea, When Heaven Touches The Earth, 100 + Years in Woodland, The Eagle Has Been Captured
Mask: Home By The Sea, When Heaven Touches The Earth, 100 + Years in Woodland, The Eagle Has Been Captured
Home By The Sea
​60" x 22", 2023
Hampton University's cultural identity, known as the "Home By The Sea." Having grown up in Hampton, the influence of the sea is evident in our culture, particularly through food and employment opportunities tied to the sea ports.The weaved basket, a fisherman's net filled with seafood. Adding a personal touch, my brother, a Hampton University attendee at the time, serves as the model for the mask. His presence further intertwines the artwork with the local narrative and the cultural significance.
Model: Corey Wilson
Photographer: Nalan Smartt
100 + Years In Woodland
​42" x 17", 2023 
The dove and center metal cylinder it rest on came directly from the farm that's been in my family for over a 100 years. Representing the rich history connected to agriculture. During the residency I took a day to explore the acres with my great uncle in North Carolina. Visiting the land, hearing the stories, and opportunity to further develop it into this project was special. 
Model: Lanexa Neal
Photographer: Nalan Smartt
When Heaven Touches The Earth
2023
Intentional to represent the spirit of God. Which is exemplified by the color white, figuratively shaped like a bird, and the babies on the head/mouth. Specifically the stork was an image that I saw all the time in yards in Virginia. Which meant that a newborn was in the home. This mask encapsulates the presence of God.
Model: Melanin Amor
Photographer: Nalan Smartt
The Eagle Has Been Captured 
​2023
Embodying a rebellious spirit, intertwining elements that echo a warrior ethos. The vibrant red, black, and green (RBG) colors symbolize a Pan African agenda. The use of black paint pays homage to the fearless resolve of those who wore molasses during Caribbean slave revolts. The wired-down eagle signifies the manifestation of the decline of Western imperialism. It stands as a potent symbol of liberation and the breaking free from historical chains.
Model: Mark Anthony Wilson Jr
Photographer: Nalan Smartt
Model: Melanin Amor, Corey Wilson, Lanexa Neal, Mark Anthony Wilson Jr
Photographer: Nalan Smartt