After creating “Wanting-Part 1” I couldn’t help but think about other people’s “wantings” in life. This summer, seeing the murder of George Floyd, and being reminded over and over again, that black lives are in danger in this country, was more than heart breaking. I wanted to create a piece that was not my own perspective. The woman in this painting is wanting something that she should already have in this country. She shouldn’t have to pray, wish, or want for safety for herself, her family and her children. Racism, whether systemic or by an individual/s, is real in this country. “Black Lives Matter” is a statement that should never be political. Black lives DO matter, and horrific events like with George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless others, is a call to action. Call to raise our voices in support of our black brothers and sisters.

I have decided that 100% of the profit from this painting will be donated to the NAACP to help further their mission to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination. I truly believe that programs like this are what help make true change. Voting with our dollars can be equally, if not stronger, than voting with a ballot.

"Wanting-Part 2" (Original Sketch)
pencil on handmade paper
5”x7”
Matted to an 8”x10”