as i lay my head down
i can say
i was honest
i was true
i did it with love
never lie
just to please
never ply
just to appease
defend your honor
and integrity
otherwise
who else will
stand your ground
your decisions are sound
be the example
you will suffer
but
at least
youre you
as huey newton said
'id rather die on my feet
than live on my knees'
when the dust clears
make sure
you are standing
there is someone out there
to treat you
the way you need
have patience
as you wait to be seated


artist statement

in drawing studio back in college, my favorite professor walked over to me and examined my drawing for about 5 minutes. he then gave me a compliment and posed a question in one breathe. he said, 'you draw like a master, but, can you make art?' i got the message right away.
i have a command of traditional media as i continue to experiment with the new, however, i learned a long time ago that no matter what tools you use they mean nothing if the audience doesn't feel you. this life chose me, and i love it, and if during my journey i can be mentioned alongside, michelangelo, leonardo da vinci, pablo picasso, malcolm x, frida kahlo, bob marley, and michael jackson, then maybe i can smile.