Proof of Concept - black work

It takes a while for me to get comfortable with a new art form, a new process, and new materials. Though I like to experiment with new materials, the depth of my experimentation is tied to my interests in what I can create. Below is the combination of a new process (laser cutter) and a current project (black work). I found it easier to apply the new material/process to an existing passion. The laser cutter helped with the proof of concept for a photo piece.

black work (series title)

Lift or National Black Anthem (photo title)

Notes

The lyrics to the National Black Anthem will flow off of the page (roughly 20" x 28"). The letters will be around 2" in height.

Photoshop Mock Up of Picture

Sample letters were cut from a 1/4" piece of 12x12" wood panel. The top line was spray painted black.

Laser Cut Letters (approx 3")

20" x 28" Background Paper

The black letters were placed on a sheet of black paper similar to the photoshop version above.

The goal is to have the lyrics both blend and stand out to the viewer.

The Black Crowns

Though my artistic medium of choice is currently photography, I have always loved making things (or breaking things) with my hands. The Black Crowns are a combination of two things I enjoy; photography and sculpture. Black Crown (Biggie) was inspired by a quote in a play that I saw. The term “black crown” floated in the air and sparked the question “What would a black crown look like?” I thought about what a crown means in black culture and specifically in Hip Hop culture. This led to The Notorious B.I.G.’s portrait of him wearing a tilted crown. I modeled my crown based on the one he wore. Instead of using a prefabricated crown, I decided to make my own using clay. Working with my hands brings me joy. The process helps to slow me down and helps me to be present. Mistakes happen when I get ahead of myself and when they do, it reminds me to focus and recenter myself. It becomes a practice in meditation for me. This one idea for a photograph has morphed into a larger body of work that I’m excited to produce.

Black Crown (Biggie)

Black Crown (Basquiat)