Spotlight Artist

Madelyn Sneed-Grays

West
Artist profile photo

Mountain Top Views and Valley Walks (Dominic)

Man in a red jacket with a yellow collar stands outdoors under a clear blue sky.

oil on canvas

Resilience Personified (Robin)

Woman in pink bathrobe and towel with face mask and heart-shaped sunglasses.

oil on canvas

Foreign Seasons (Tumi)

Woman in white outfit with black stripes, wearing a black hat and headscarf, neutral background.

oil on canvas

Featured in New American Paintings1 / 3

Artist Statement

 It’s a miracle that Black joy exists. Being consistently reminded of our traumatic past by way of Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome and American society itself, joy shouldn’t be a part of our vernacular. However, due to resilience, it is.

To be in the presence of Black joy is a sight to behold. From the infectious smiles and laughter brought on by whatever jokes or experiences are being had, to the ability to truly express our thoughts, exercise our passions, and bless society with our creative minds, we are our ancestors’ wildest dreams. I hope my work encourages the exploration of different cultures and brings awareness to the humanity and beauty of the Black community.

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