The Story of My Life
I was born in Haiti and moved to America in 2001. My mother, sisters, and I were forced to assimilate into a new culture. As I began to absorb the world around me and grow up, issues such as obesity, AID’s, poverty, and conformity suddenly became significant. Because of the new pressures I faced, I can honestly say I have always been an adult living in a child's body because I have had so many responsibilities, starting as early as age eight. As the oldest of four it was my duty to take care and support my mom while she was a single mother. My father eventually came to America in 2007, but by then we already long adjusted to life without his presence. Although I have missed several valuable parts of my childhood, my experiences have ultimatly spaced me as an individual; which influenced me into becoming the independent young woman I am today. My life situation has taught me to value more than anything, education, family, teamwork, and appreciating and being thankful for what God has given me. This new environment has influenced my artwork greatly as I often combine the individualistic values of America with the collectivist and traditional values of my native land. My artwork ultimately connects to my identity itself and the current society we live in. I find inspiration from the harsh realities on life. I strive to alter society’s perception of what is considered ‘art’ or ‘beauty’, rather than conforming to its expectations. I love to do the unexpected and expose the reality that others choose to ignore or downplay. I paint because it is not only a form of expression but it allows me to expose and explore my emotions. Ultimately, I believe that not only should one paint for oneself, but for others as well. Thus, by giving my work a story, a purpose, and a reason, I am able to speak for those children that cannot afford to and hopefully change the world, one art piece at a time.