You Belong. Summer of 2020
The CURTAINS/FENCES series are public art installations. They are large acrylic paintings on shower curtains with sheer fabric installed on gates. Despite public art being a direct message, my art is an intimate message. My work is sweet, light, and with comforting visuals. The installation plays with lightness and softness against the urban environment. The location plays an important role for these installations – the two locations I’ve selected are on developer’s land in North Philadelphia. Fences are meant to keep something in or out, but these installations suggest belonging and openness. The curtain alludes to an opening for the gate. Although my work is inspired by compassion, it is also inspired by the reality of how marginalized people are treated in the United States. My art touches on intimate desire to imagine a world that is better for one another. The installations are graceful and freely interacting with the environment to give meaning to keep the community together, empowered, and uplifted.
The first installation, “YOU BELONG” was inspired by United States aggressive policies to deport immigrants. I painted a woman figure in a dance pose. When the curtain moves with the wind – the woman moves with grace. The warm-colored fabric and the light from the sun, moon, and street light gives the viewer a sense of warmth and a feeling of home.
