These digital montages are primarily autobiographical, combining my
photographs, drawings, and computer generated imagery with snapshots from
the family archives and collected antique photographs. They are an eclectic
blend that weave together my ideas, memories, and discoveries in order to
enshrine the symbols and curios of my life into cryptic combinations that
take on a life of their own. As I follow a romantic notion of the ancestral
path, self portraiture remains an important element.
The background patterns are based on a fascination with tile, textile
and wrought iron designs. They embrace a variety of influences, especially
those of African origan. The different components are stacked or isolated
in their own compartments more often than they are seamlessly merged. The
montages almost function like assemblages placed on fabric.
The juxtapositions are intended to create mythic images
that combine a sense of implied narrative with the presence of ritual. The
montages address cultural coding as well as private enigma. They usually
contain elements which reflect an African American identity and refer to
the complex relationships with mainstream society.
These digital montages are primarily autobiographical, combining my
photographs, drawings, and computer generated imagery with snapshots from
the family archives and collected antique photographs. They are an eclectic
blend that weave together my ideas, memories, and discoveries in order to
enshrine the symbols and curios of my life into cryptic combinations that
take on a life of their own. As I follow a romantic notion of the ancestral
path, self portraiture remains an important element.
