Michael Williams

Jean-Michel Basquiat once said, “I don’t think about art when I’m working. I try to think about life.” These are hard words to hear as a black artist living in America. But, as an artist, it is important to reflect on not only my life, but the life of other people of color. This is why I work primarily with paint, as I feel that I’m always searching for the right “color” to select in my work. When I approach a project, it takes time and careful consideration. I research complex subjects (that may even be provocative) like police brutality, racism, toxic masculinity, and the prison complex. I carefully decide what materials to use. I sketch on paper furiously, only to approach the canvas with brushstrokes as quick and aggressive as my thoughts. Some may see grit, shock and awe, or even a criticism of cultural homogenization, but this is about tearing down the comfort zones. I wasn’t privileged to have these comfort zones because of the color of my skin; why should others?

Solum; graphite on paper