I used to think my inconsistencies as an artist were weaknesses. I never draw the same thing exactly the same way. I struggle to replicate a still life. I barely have the spatial reasoning to work from a grid. Because of these things, I believed I had a limited repertoire in what I could do well. I assumed my portfolio would be less valuable because nothing I did looked like what I saw elsewhere–whether in museums or online.
Over the years, I’ve realized I judged my art based on what I’d found in textbooks. I lost sight of the critical fact that several things can be true at the same time. I can admire Renaissance Memento Mori pieces, I can develop my own symbolism, and all of it is art.
Words like surrealism and afro-punk give an idea of what influences my art, but those aren’t definitive descriptions of my work. There are three questions I use to guide my projects:
- Am I exploring new ways of expressing my creativity?
- Will this challenge me to grow into my identity?
- Does this project give space for compassion and hope?
When my projects accomplish those things, I trust I’ve done well.
Art, Artist, Artistry: My Will and Reason
On the Other Side of the Canvas: Journal Entries from My Art Journey
In the Margins: Small art. All fun.
SELECTED WORKs
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V. H. King's Ink 