Talia Skyles
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Head in the Clouds
2021
Digital mixed media
30" x 24"
Statement
This body of work explores the duality of joy and struggle I have experienced this past year. My newfound love for gardening, which I discovered during the pandemic, is exemplified in the first two paintings "Autumn Reflection" and "Spring Resilience". Too often in the media, black women are not depicted as radiant, cherished, and covered in flowers. By combining both digital and traditional painting mediums, I painted faces of joy and representation that I was so desperately craving to see.
The second part of this work explores the mental struggles I have felt this past year. Through family interviews, I gained insight into how my parents deal with the struggles of life, and that knowledge inspired these paintings. The clouds represent my state of mind and how some days are clear and optimistic, while other days are stormy and chaotic. Through this body of work, I create a sanctuary, where I can dream, hope, cry and be a full human being without fear of judgment.
General Fine Arts (BFA) Students
Abby Holgerson - not exhibiting
Anyuan Ji - not exhibiting
Catalina Zamarripa - not exhibiting
Doyee Kim - not exhibiting
Evie Huang - not exhibiting
Ezra Lee-Burns - not exhibiting
Hannah Hatley - not exhibiting
Harley French - not exhibiting
Junyu Chen - not exhibiting
Lara Wei - not exhibiting
Lauren Campbell - not exhibiting
Meixuan Li - not exhibiting