ARTIST STATEMENT

As a child, I felt ashamed to be associated with the South. I loathed southern drawl and thought it unrefined and “back woodsy.”

As an adult, however, I found myself intrigued by the “Southern Experience.” The richness of culture, cuisine and  music that permeates the South drew me in.

Eventually, my career path led me to experience the South first-hand. I was, at the same time, both moved by the South’s beauty and alarmed by its horrendous racism and intolerance. To experience overt racism was jarring. I found myself the target of ridicule for my hair, my speech and my very existence. The experience left me fearful and anxious, yet inspired.  

As painful as the experience was, I held on to the positives, and with lots of prayer and support, I began to acknowledge the pain while embracing the pride and joy that resulted from it.

Embracing that pride and joy was far from easy. It was an internal battle, but ultimately I fell in love with all that I am--southern roots and all. It was a homecoming. And in my return home, I was blessed with the gift and uninhibited expression of my work which is born from emotions and deeply inspired by the sounds of black folk and my southern roots. The blues, jazz, gospel--the familiar sound of cloth scraping across a washing board, and Grandma’s laughter.

My work continues to evolve, as I continue to love, learn, live and embrace all of life.

Linda