HAVE A SEAT, TAKE A SEAT - 2024 RESIDENCY AT SIEBEL CENTER FOR DESIGN, ON THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CAMPUS.

In this residency, we embarked on an exploration of family lineage and its connection to the history of the University of Illinois, particularly in relation to the Black student experience and the North End of Champaign. This project is a personal journey that intertwines familial history with the broader narratives of community, resilience, and identity.

The North End of Champaign has long been a site of cultural significance for Black residents and students. Through archival research, oral histories, and film, we sought to highlight the stories that have shaped both family legacy and the collective experiences of Black students at the university. This exploration revealed a rich tapestry of struggle and triumph, reflecting the complexities of navigating education, identity, and community.

The artistic process involved creating a series of mixed-media works that incorporate photographs, film, text, and found materials. By layering these elements, we aimed to evoke a sense of connection and continuity, highlighting the intergenerational bonds that tie us to our past while also reflecting on the present.

This residency has been a pivotal moment in my personal artistic practice, reinforcing my commitment to exploring themes of identity, community, and the power of storytelling. I look forward to continuing this dialogue and discovering how our histories shape our future.