When I started sketching, my intent was to paint a peaceful garden - a quick colorful oasis that would provide comfort. To that end, I used a small sheet of canvas paper instead of a larger box canvas. However, something else began to manifest and I started to draw this graffiti - black optimism.
My other world was the safe cultural oasis of our church and community. Both of my parents and one of my sisters attended HBCUs and are also members of the Divine 9 (National Pan-Hellenic Council). Our culture connection was driven by the people who came to the house or through church related events.