Inspired by my African heritage, I use fabrics to tell and weave together stories that link people of African descent across its diasporas. My artistic practice reimagines painting and drawing through textiles, using colored fabrics as my paint and stitching and thread work for drawing. I paint digital portraits, print them on fabrics, then add depth and texture with intricate machine embroidery. This approach transforms two-dimensional surfaces into tactile experiences, pushing material boundaries to expand the language of painting and drawing; embracing techniques often sidelined in Western fine art. Through my work, I spotlight intricate Black hairstyles, symbolizing the nuanced dynamics of strength versus vulnerability. For instance, Black hair looks tough on the outside but is easily susceptible to damage, my work explores seemingly contradictory themes such as extracting light from darkness, finding joy amid despair, and forming community from our individual quests. Each piece serves as a mirror, reflecting viewers’ own stories and inviting exploration of universal themes within the context of African history and contemporary experiences.