Joi N. Lowe

Created for exhibition, Moments in Nature. This piece is made of parts of Northern Catalpa tree at Historic Sotterley, located in Hollywood, Maryland. It consists of laminated leaves, seedpods and hand painted canvas cutouts. Inspired by the song' (96 degrees by music group Third World).

Ms. Frida is a sculpture created to showcase the inner beauty and strength of artist Frida Kahlo. This introduction provides the viewer a glimpse inside her person and profession. Her work is a twisted beauty compiled of tormenting pain and heartbreak. It is this that inspired me to want to pay homage to her. The use of materials was intentional and seeks to create a conversation based on unconventional beauty standards. The grapevine used, interprets her physical strength. The twists, turns, and kinks, like Frida may seem odd however are mythically beautiful, hence the free-flowing strands of yarn attached. Frida's unique fashion has pushed her forward as a force in pop-culture. Her bold brow is internationally known, duplicated and replicated as there is no escaping her gaze. This gaze often portrayed straight forward can be found in advertisements for cosmetics, clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Often in her self-portraits, flowers adorned her hair. I chose to carry this over in this sculpture. I also included hearts; to symbolize the love I have for her work and the courage she exuded. To know Ms. Frida, is to know color and passion for life.

My intent is to provide a glimpse inside of my living room, detailing my passion for houseplants. As a plant parent, I feel like I never have enough and need more to make my home feel complete. I often ask myself, how many plants it would take to satisfy my visual desire. The materials used are thread, print media, sequins, and paint. I incorporated an illustration of myself along with a guitar and record player, as I immensely enjoy music. The thread used created dimension, which invites the viewer to look closely at each item and to form their own relationship. When it comes to the things you love, “more,” really is never enough.

Inspired by reggae artist Bob Marley.

Inspired by reggae artist Bob Marley, colors shown represent reggae and rastafari culture.