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.

"Can’t Stop Loving You" is a mixed-media collage on driftwood, created to symbolize an unwavering devotion to a past lover. Inspired by the soul-stirring lyrics of singer-songwriter Kem, the piece captures a connection that remains vibrant despite the passage of years. While the physical union has ended, the work explores the "insatiable feeling of yearning" that persists, blending nostalgic reminiscence with a resilient hope for reconciliation. Through the weathered texture of the driftwood and the layered materials of the collage, I intend for the viewer to witness not only a symbol of enduring love but the quiet torment of an unsettled heart.

Created in 2020 during the forced introspection of the COVID-19 pandemic, "Her" is a self-portrait that captures a pivotal moment of self-examination and evolution. The global confinement provided an unexpected catalyst, urging me to look inward and truly explore who I am and what I represent. The piece began its life humbly as pastel on paper, a direct response to the immediate stillness of lockdown. Over the years, much like a person growing and changing with new experiences, the work has evolved into its current form. This transformation mirrors my own journey; as the world shifted politically and I reached the age of 47, a newfound urgency and courage emerged a powerful need to express an authentic self that had been long unaddressed. Ultimately, this portrait is a declaration of presence and the shedding of apprehension. As the great Nina Simone wisely articulated, “I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: no fear! I mean really, no fear”! "Her" embodies that freedom—an act of self-expression unburdened by fear and ready to be seen.

"Seeds of Love" is a collection of Northern Catalpa seed pods gathered from the Historic Sotterley plantation in Hollywood, Maryland. While working onsite in the fall of 2024, I became captivated by the pods scattered across the grounds, drawn to their unique bends, folds, and distinct textures. As I collected them, my thoughts turned to the generations of people who lived and labored on this land. I found myself wondering if those before, specifically the enslaved individuals who shaped this history, found the same quiet joy and beauty in these natural forms. This work is titled "Seeds of Love" to honor both my passion for these singular specimens and to offer a gesture of deep respect to the ancestors of this site.