This photograph is part of my thesis Exhibition entitled "Re-Presenting the African Woman". I hope to use my photographs as a way of enlightening my fellow Americans about the diversity that exists on the African Continent which for many years have been mistaken for a country.

37” x 18” x 16”

Lift as We Heal is an understanding of trauma as the potential for growth. One heart-piece of poplar wood had memories of trauma saved in beautiful colors running through it as well as a deep split. The artist wanted to mend this piece and lift it up. To strengthen and emphasize the richness of poplar’s colors and texture, the artist used walnut, a hardwood, as the dado joints and lifting elements. The dimensions of the lifting elements reflect the voids created by the dado joints to sustain a language of healing throughout the piece.

Personally, this piece reflects the rehabilitation of the artist who had sustained injuries on August 12th. Through this material study of wood, they gained an understanding of strength and beauty, trauma and growth, and perseverance and time.