CREATIVE PROCESS
When I collaborate on projects, I act as a creative consultant, helping clients not only identify their needs but also gain a deeper understanding of them through thorough research and development.
This project explores the life of John Mercer Langston, focusing on his transition from a young man to a mature leader. Born to a white plantation owner and an African American/Native American mother, Langston faced racism and identity struggles. Key moments in his life, such as witnessing race riots, shaped his realization that society viewed him as African American. The artwork captures Langston's emotional journey, highlighting his experiences as a youth and his later achievements as the first African American lawyer in Ohio and his political career. These works delve into the complexities of racial identity and Langston's enduring legacy as a civil rights leader.
RESEARCH
First I deep dive into research, using as many facts, data and statistics as I can to fuel creative outcomes. Below you can see an example of the photos I've collected in order to fuel the visuals for the series of works.
SKETCH
Next, a sketch to lay out the general composition. Here, I chose to depict Langston during his youth, as both a baby and a young boy. The works illustrate how he was forced to play the cards he was dealt at birth and how the riots he experienced impacted his self-perception, causing inner turmoil that eventually forced him to grow into the individual he became. The collaborator and i bounced ideas back and forth, honing in on the compositions until they matched the intended narrative.
COLOR
I then refine the idea, adding color and details to elevate the initial concept. Each layer of color and detail is designed to evoke the emotional and historical depth of Langston's journey, making the final piece not only a visual narrative but also a conversation starter about racial identity and resilience.
EACH TIME
This process is repeated for each piece, focusing on crafting a narrative of transformation, gestation, and overcoming obstacles. Each artwork aims to capture a different phase of Langston's life, emphasizing his growth and the challenges he overcame to become a pivotal figure in American history. This approach ensures that the series as a whole provides a comprehensive and compelling story of his journey.
