The False Face
The "False Face" series is my first genuine attempt to portray the world as I have lived and seen it. This body of work delves into the complexities of black boyhood, the journey to manhood, identity struggles, belonging, trauma, and mental health. By using cultural nonverbal communication, such as the "gaze," I reference the hypervigilance that often permeates black communities. My work also critically examines how American history has muddled the understanding of black masculinity.
Through collaged images of past and future events, I create a tangible reflection of today’s often imperceptible realities. Each piece is imbued with profound symbolism, such as the use of wax and gun shell casings to highlight themes of institutionalization and the alarming rise in murder rates. The cerulean backgrounds and other iconography in my work symbolize innocence and other overlapping themes, fostering a deeper dialogue about the black experience.
The "False Face" series offers an intimate glimpse into our lives, striving to unravel and correct historical misinterpretations. This work stands as a reaction to our environment, a testament to our resilience, and a call for a deeper understanding and recognition of our humanity.
Documented works from 2022 and ongoing.