Fragments of thought, 2022

Oil on canvas

40 x 30 in

This piece explores the intersections of texture, form, and portraiture. It features a portrait painted exclusively in black and white, drawing inspiration from contemporary explorations of Black identity. The minimalist palette allows the depth of the subject’s expression to emerge, creating a striking contrast against the vibrant background.

The gradient backdrop transitions from cerulean and turquoise to a silver-white blend, symbolizing movement and the fluid nature of thought and emotion. I incorporated texture into the work by using mini plastic square baking cutters to imprint compressed rectangles throughout the canvas. The addition of orange squares within the background gradient invites the viewer to contemplate the balance between structure and fluidity, form and emotion.