Rub Some Dirt In It

  The series illustrates my emotional ties to three Mississippi counties, Chickasaw, Pontotoc, and Jackson, that represent distinct phases of my life: childhood, teenage years, and young adulthood. Each color and style of painting equates to a particular mental state during that period. My portraits highlight distinct moments and memories tethered to a particular county: Photographs captured during those particular periods of my life serve as the backdrop for each portrait. The colors represent base emotions being felt in these pivotal times: yellow signifies happiness and growth, red represents anger and rage, and blue exemplifies sorrow and loneliness. The thick, cracked textures symbolize a time where I was broken yet coming back together. Through this series, I hope to address the idea of how we truly view one’s life through the photographs we share and to take time to realize the well-being of others.

Thesis Committee Members:

Professor, Chair Aaron McElfish

Professor Alex Bostic

Doctor Jenna Altomonte

Chickasaw

Oil Paint, Dirt, on Photograph Collage, 36” x 46”, 2022

Pontotoc

Oil Paint, Ash, on Photograph Collage, 36” x 46”, 2022

Jackson

 Oil Paint, Dirt, Joint Compound, Crackle paste, on Photograph Collage, 36” x 48”, 2022