35th Annual Juried Competition at Dalton Gallery
The Arts Council of York County
I am honored to have my work featured in the 2024 35th Annual Juried Competition at the Center for the Arts' Dalton Gallery, hosted by The Arts Council of York County. This event highlights 29 artists from across the country. Juror Rebecca Forstater, a South Carolina-based interdisciplinary artist, provided a unique perspective on the show. This is my first time applying to the juried competition and being a part of this exhibition and being able to connect with distinguished artists has been a truly inspiring experience.
"Family Matters" is an oil painting that began as a landscape assignment. Inspired by my mentor and friend, Michael Simpson, who encouraged me to share my landscape idea, the piece evolved into something more personal. Originally featuring trees and a skyline, the painting gradually became a portrayal of my family——my younger brother El-Jousha, my middle sister Kayla, and myself. Unfortunately, my oldest sister Taylor couldn’t be included.
As the painting developed, I realized my focus had shifted. What started as a landscape transformed into a depiction of connection and intimacy. The painting may suggest a story about belonging, or it might evoke feelings of isolation and loneliness, like me with my headphones on. Paintings often reveal their true meaning over time, and "Family Matters" is no exception, offering a canvas for various interpretations and reflections.