02/02/2021
Like everyone else, I’m glad 2020 is in the rearview mirror, but I’m thankful for what it has given me; a new and very real perspective of my position in the world, a reckoning of my privilege, and the time to think of what I can do for others. I took a lot of time to listen and absorb - it didn’t feel important to make or promote my own artwork amidst the BLM protests when so many people had urgent, dire messages to broadcast. As I was taking this time to reflect, I started looking for overlooked areas in Pittsburgh that deserve to be seen and celebrated. With the guidance of , I landed on urban gardens; quiet spaces that offered peace, nourishment, and community to people during the pandemic. Again with the help of Neighborhood Allies, I was put in touch with the the people that developed and cared for seven gardens around Pittsburgh:
The African Healing Garden
The Black Urban Gardeners Farm
The Gardens of Millvale
The Homewood Rain Garden
The Peace and Friendship Farm
The Positive Effect Community Garden
The Sleeping Octopus Garden
Together, the garden owners and I created designs for seven posters that I am now screen printing. These posters will be for sale upon completion - 100% of the proceeds will go to the owners of the gardens. Please follow along as I print these posters and highlight the wonderful places they depict. Cheers.