Formed at the intersection of social and physical environments is community. As an overarching theme in my work, I’m fascinated by parallel developments of communities and the individuals that represent them. Connected to my personal experience, my artwork often relates to Black identity and existence. Shifting between two-dimensional and three-dimensional work, I explore moments when an individual shapes their environment — both social and physical — while simultaneously being shaped themselves.
Hometown?
Maple Hill, North Carolina
What is your primary medium?
Mixed media.
What was the inspiration for your show?
My show is a collection of stories/experiences I’ve learned in classes or that have been passed down shared through family and friends.
What does the title of your show mean?
Collisions of Inadmissible Fantasies is a quote from James Baldwin’s The Devil Finds Works where he discusses the disconnection between representation of Black people and the lived experiences of Black people. These disparities manifest in several ways; education, healthcare, and media.
What do you feel is the most significant piece in the exhibition and why? What is your favorite piece and why?
The most significant piece is George Stinney Jr. because that piece shows a specific, real-life event of where these collisions and misconceptions can be fatal.
My personal favorite is my most recent piece, Does Our Love Scare You? The piece features an old photograph of my parents when they first got together and speaks directly to representation of Black love (romantic, familial, platonic) within media.
How will art and the process of making continue to play a role in your life after graduation?
While I fully expect to continue making art, I hope I can find a role where I can begin to show others how to make connections, build essential skill sets, and set themselves up for career in the arts. I’ve been fortunate enough to have stellar mentors that have pushed me and I hope that I can do the same for others.
Keep up with Marquia on social media:
Instagram: @leaving_my_marq
Website: https://art.marquiahumphries.dcreate.domains/
View the virtual tour below.
View Marquia’s artist talk.