Mecca Givens
Silhouette
Drawing their narrative from the concept of youth and childhood memories, My pieces address the growing concerns among African American youth by examining ideas of adolescence. Using charcoal, my achromatic images depict harsh realities facing black children, while capturing moments of nostalgia and tenderness. These drawings are inspired by the notion of being a child and how the image of the child today has faded into a mere silhouette. The work reflects on today’s broken society while drawing connections to my own fleeting childhood.
At once, I want to portray an honest depiction of moments captured in everyday life, providing a candid snapshot taken from life, resembling an old Kodak image. My drawings present the reality I see, while still embracing the tender moments of being a child.
Thesis Committee Members:
- Professor Ming Hong, Chair
- Professor Alex Bostic
- Professor Jenna Altomonte
Road of Remembrance
Charcoal on Bristol, 18” x 14”, 2021, NFS
My niece, laying in bed, surrounded by discarded dolls, referencing the remnants of her childhood.
Lanier A33
Charcoal on Bristol, 18” x 14”, 2021, NFS
On the pavement, just outside the school’s gate, three kids sit questioning the purpose of going to school. This scene includes a broken desk, a black cat and a discarded backpack to show increased dropout rates among kids.
Virdenaddition
Charcoal on Bristol, 18” x 14”, 2021, NFS
Drawn from a childhood photo, three kids are shown walking past a makeshift memorial to highlight the gun violence within the community.
Heather Lane
Charcoal on Bristol, 18” x 14”, 2021, NFS
Inspired by the photography of Carrie Mae Weems, two kids sit at the table, one gazing at an empty chair, while the other stares at a family portrait hanging on the wall.
Hanging Moss
Charcoal on Bristol, 18” x 14”, 2021, NFS
Inspired by the photography of Carrie Mae Weems, two siblings sit at the table on their phones.