my thesis

"Silent riva’ run deep" is a Jamaican proverb which means one should never judge something, someone or situations just by its appearance. You can't just look at a still body of water and really tell how deep it is until you jump in and find out for yourself.

In this graphic collage series, I attempt to develop and grasp a sense of my identity. The memories and experiences in my life have greatly affected me and my outlook on life. From the lessons my parents have taught me to the times I have followed or ignored that advice, I’ve come to a better sense of knowing who I am as a young Afro-Caribbean female. For this series, I wrote sporadic journal entries that expressed emotions, questions and realizations I had; the entries included interviews with my mother and father to learn more about their past; including familial relationships and social interactions outside the family. I have found that I share much more than I thought with my parents. From my mother's flirtatious manner and my father's adventurous demeanor, I share certain quirks, gestures, strengths and shortcomings. I am curious to know whether these are inherited and inevitable or learned and rectifiable.

Through creating these collages, I have developed a greater appreciation for my parents--who they once were and who they have become. In turn, I have gained more insight into my family history and my culture. I have used handwritten letters and journal entries as graphic elements within each piece to document my parent’s past and our feelings about each other and life. I chose ranges of blues, greens, yellows and reds to represent our personalities and our development. The photographs then gather into a personal iconic image of the subject. Hopefully, this project will eventually continue on to include the rest of my family and, in turn, open new windows for discovering my identity.

Special thanks to Mommy and Daddy, Alana, my family and friends, Abby Goldstein, Casey Ruble, Bill Conlon, Jerilea Zempel, Annibal Pella, OSLCD and the Fordham Community, Matty Conlin, Shannon Copfer, Gabe Blankenship, and last but not least, Elushika Weerakoon. You all have given me support and help throughout this crazy year. I couldn’t have made it this far without you all. Thank you!