United in grief | an ode to black unity

United in Grief | 36×24 in | Mixed Media

“I grieve different…” - Kendrick Lamar

A line recited by Kendrick Lamar throughout the opening track to the fifth studio album “Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers” reflects upon the deep isolation one feels during grief. A falsity disputed upon further reflection, “everybody grieves different… everybody grieves.”

The song United in Grief resonates with me due to two great losses I’ve experienced within the past 5 years. Death and taxes are the only things guaranteed in this life full of Earthly possessions. The death of loved ones, previous identities, freedom, and choice are not owed just to you.

“A gift from God, true community. Black Americans are stronger in unity.” - Ashten

A shared grief of the past, trauma, and royal history erasure perpetuated by those who feel inferior to God, our savior. God is my collaborator, and my ancestors guide me, too. So here we are today, presenting this art to you.

The watercolor portraits represent U and I, a reflection of whoever gazes upon them; also a nod to the tracks from “To Pimp a Butterfly” (2015). A chain that once resulted in scars now glistens in the Sun amongst earthly stars.

“United in Grief” - an ode to black unity, to love that transcends oppression and reflects the complexities of humanity. From the concrete arose a bright flower, its nectar attracting the butterflies of freedom.

**Love is not exclusive to men and women, nor is it exclusive to romantic connections. This piece and my identity represent black unity and pride through shared pain and trauma. I’m a queer artist - this piece displays my desire for safety and community amongst the black community.