This painting is a picture that many different people combined their fingers to the ‘Peace’ sign. This picture is telling that all people are in peace, and love.

Self Reflections peers into my identity and self expression through my hair styles over time. This warm and nostalgic piece moves chronologically from left to right. A younger me, with my voluminous Afro, is standing next to a slightly older me, with my tighter coils. Finally, I find my self-expression after taking the huge risk of cutting my hair for the first time in my life. Shedding those 12 inches of hair, I emerge, self-confident and mature, with my short cropped curls. In this brightly colored digital painting, I have attempted to collapse time into a single snapshot- the three versions of myself radiating joy and self love. Self Reflections is a trip down memory lane, with a girl looking at herself in the mirror and liking what she sees.

I wanted to make this piece to show how women can not be held back and how they rise up against adversity. I used flowers to represent women because they are often seen as delicate and frail. But them breaking through the concrete shows they are strong, and can rise up through even the hardest conditions.

Collaboration with Miu Tanaka, second grade at King Elementary in Ms. Gooel’s class.

We don’t speak the same language, but we have learned to understand each other by reading facial expressions and body language, and by becoming in-tune with each other’s moods and feelings. We find and celebrate the things that connect us.

Our piece honors our special bond, and how friendship and kindness are bigger than the language barrier that divides us. The Japanese writing on the left translates to, “Even if our languages are different, a hug makes our hearts one.” Hugging is not the cultural norm in Japan, but one of our first moments of connection was through a hug. Now we hug all the time!

私たちは同じ言語を話しませんが、表情やボディランゲージを読み取り、お互いの気分や感情を感じ取ることで、理解し合えるようになりました。そして、私たちをつないでいるこの絆を大切にしています。

この作品は、私たちの特別な絆、そして友情や思いやりが、言葉という壁を越えることを表しています。Hugは日本では一般的な文化ではありませんが、私たちが初めて心を通わせた瞬間のひとつが、Hugでした。今では、私たちはいつもHugをしています。

This piece honors my heritage and ancestry. My mother is a Black Panamanian immigrant, my grandmother (abuela) is Asian Panamanian, and I am a white Panamanian American. Though we differ in skin tone, hair texture, and physical features, we share a culture, language, and deep familial love that spans generations.

In this work, I portray three women resembling my abuela, my mother, and myself, each wearing a version of the pollera, Panama’s traditional dress worn in festivals and dances. Surrounding them are symbols of my culture — traditional foods, religious and spiritual icons, music, the ocean, and the Panamanian flag.

Through this artwork, I celebrate the beauty, diversity, and enduring love within my family and heritage.

I first thought about what this picture would be like in the future. This earth peace symbol was thought of by my friend. At first the person in this picture was one whole person, but the assignment was about differences, so I cut the person in the picture in half to create a unification of peace

My artwork is about ICE. This is an important issue to me because my family has had to go through the immigration system, and it makes me really sad to know that people leave their country to better their lives or to stay away from violence back home. It is also scary to think about how much fear and uncertainty many families live with while trying to stay safe.

To create this art piece, first I found a drawing of people on Google and used that picture to line up my figures. Then I searched up some flags to put in the background underneath the words “Immigrants built this country.”

This country was built by immigrants and by enslaved Africans who were forced to come here. Both groups helped shape America, even though their journeys were very different.”

I chose this message because of an affirmation song sung by snoop dog. I then thought of a lotus flower so i combined my ideas together, but I wanted more, and wanted to address racism, so I drew 2 hands, one white, one black, holding (peace) the Lotus Flower

Long before county lines or survey grids, this land was organized through Indigenous systems of movements and memory. Trails connected villages, rivers, and burial grounds marking their ancestral presence. The arrival of colonists did not simply introduce a new population, but it also meant theft and robbery. Through treaties such as the 1807 Treaty of Detroit, vast stretches of southeast Michigan were transferred to the U.S. government and became federally controlled. This cleared the way for surveys, speculation, public schools, and colonial settlement. Lines were drawn, parcels named, and native homelands were reclassified as colonial property.

The creation of Washtenaw County rests on the process of Indigenous land dispossession, as Native lands were redefined through colonial law and Indigenous communities were forced to move from their ancestral homelands to make way for colonists. As we commemorate the County’s Bicentennial, we reflect on the roots of our community through the lens of Native history, recognizing both the resilience of Indigenous peoples and the enduring impacts of this history on the land we share today.

We need to speak for those that can’t! There are far too many injustices happening in the world. If we say nothing, nothing may happen!

Everyone has a place. No one should be afraid just because they are (or aren’t) an immigrant.

Friendship brings us together no matter what our differences.

I wanted to show how my friends and I do not look the same. We are different colors, shapes and sizes working together to win the game of tug of war. I added band-aids to each person to show how sometimes we may hurt ourselves while having fun but we still are determined to win the game as a team.

Many people come from different places and say hello in different ways. This shows that anyone can be a friend, no matter what language they speak.

It was important to me to include all different skin types in their hands and represent different cultures through language.

Embrace your skin because it’s yours. You wear it and play in it and walk in it. So, embrace your skin no matter what.

Ancestral Exhaustion names a tiredness that did not begin in one lifetime. It is the inherited fatigue of always having to be alert, self-protective, and self-reliant in a world that has rarely believed our pain or fully honored our humanity. This exhaustion lives in the body and in memory, shaped by generations who learned that safety was uncertain and rest was never guaranteed.
This work holds space for that truth without apology. Exhaustion here is not weakness. It is evidence of endurance, of love carried forward, of survival practiced daily. Ancestral Exhaustion asks what becomes possible if rest is no longer conditional and our humanity no longer requires defense.

This work holds presence as a responsibility and a truth. It names the Black body as fixed within the landscape, as fact. Set within the visual language of the American West, these figures occupy a space shaped by exclusion and mythmaking. Their placement asserts Black presence as enduring and rightful, woven into the land itself. The scale carries the weight of memory and inheritance, a history that lives in the ground. These bodies remain. Their presence is claimed through being.
The stillness of these faces carries sacred gravity. Survival is deliberate and sustained through self-knowledge and care. Identity stands as sovereign ground, complete and self-defining. By reclaiming Western iconography, the work affirms the importance of diversity by expanding who is seen, remembered, and recognized as belonging. It speaks to the discipline of standing in one’s own knowing, rooted in lineage that continues to breathe and endure.

I have two nieces. Born two months apart.
The oldest with beautiful skin rich like onyx,
and coily textured hair that stands like a crown.

The youngest melanated beautiful light amber brown,
and hair that flows wavily down.

Both Black, both very beautiful on the Blackness spectrum from one another.
However, not one niece is more beautiful than the other.”

This piece is dedicated to Kennedy, Selene, and all Black girls with beautiful skin tones beyond and between.

Both girls represent the vast diversity of skin tones, facial features, and hair textures of Blackness. However, colorism (a byproduct of White supremacy) which refers to discrimination against people with darker skin tones while privileging those with lighter skin tones, impacts each girl differently.

Related by love, both girls are accepting and embracing one another’s differences while living within a colorist society.

With love, I encourage the Black community to do the same.

I’m a henna artist. I have a very small business with more than 10 years of experience. I use all organic products brought from back home that are essential oil-based. I create intricate designs, Arabic designs; for all events from wedding/birthday parties, bridal henna, festival base henna. I can create and craft in a detailed format. I also have a medical background, so I understand the chemical sensitivity and medical condition where you cannot apply a lot of harmful chemicals on your skin. Please follow my IG at VrundaVan ArtGallery to check out my work. I would be grateful to be able to participate in this event, where I can show my work to kids and adults. I would like to explore and improve my business and take to the next level and be famous as an artist.

This is a pinhole photo of the fantastic “Fearless Girl” by sculptor Kristen Visbal, outside of the New York Stock Exchange. When I traveled to NYC, I knew I wanted to photograph the statue, but I had in mind a different image initially — just the statue in its surroundings. But when I got on site, there was no way I was going to get a photo without people in it. So, embracing the spirit of pinhole street photography, I went with it… over the 8+ minute exposure, dozens of people sat or milled around or posed next to the statue to take their own photos, every one of them leaving an imprint this image. And what I got was a better picture than what I first had in mind, one that captures not just a frozen statue among frozen buildings, but an eight minute moving, living breath of NYC. It also reimagines Fearless Girl — with all the faceless people behind her, she becomes a brave protector against the money interests of Wall Street.

I express myself through art because it brings me comfort, purpose, and allows me to communicate what words often cannot. As a self-taught, emerging visual artist and muralist, my practice is deeply personal. Creating outside of traditional spaces has shaped how I work freely, using art as a tool for storytelling.Mental health advocacy is central to my work. Drawing from my own experiences, I use art for healing and self-discovery while challenging stigma. Through intentional color, texture, and form, I explore vulnerability, resilience, and growth. Using acrylics and mixed media, I balance dark and vibrant tones to reflect both struggle and strength.

As my work evolves, it increasingly centers community-engagement, especially uplifting youth. I believe art connects personal healing to collective awareness and inspires connection and advocacy.

This artwork spells the Arabic word Salaam, meaning “Peace” in a fusion of freestyle and Thuluth-inspired calligraphy. The flowing letters transform into the form of a dove, a universal symbol of hope and unity. Created with the intention to speak beyond language, the design represents the beauty of coexistence where cultures, faiths, and people meet at the same word the world longs to hear: Peace.In a time of global division, this piece reminds us that peace is not the absence of difference, but the harmony that comes when we embrace it. Salaam carries the warmth of home, the whisper of prayer, and the promise of understanding. Through this visual expression, I aim to show that peace is both art and action, something we can create together when we lead with compassion.

Patterns in my mind flow through my fingers to become art! I’m an artist who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder as an adult. Growing up and being forced to “fit in” certainly had its challenges within my family as well as the community in general. It left me largely misunderstood in so many ways. When I began drawing, it opened a whole new outlet of communication for me, one without projection, discrimination, or prejudice. I found that my greatest form of communication is creating art. Through painting, drawing and other forms of artistic expression I am able to communicate my thoughts and emotions in a way that feels natural and comfortable

After founding Sawari Media in 2019, Sawari’s prisoner newsletters expanded in circulation across 44 states. Her advocacy expertise is in policy analysis and marginalized community impact. Her creative approach is grounded in the processing of second hand traumas incurred through her advocacy with the aim of illustrating the cumulative impacts of carceral punishment and environmental racism

Mental Health is overlooked and has not been considered a disease. It affects so many people who are suffering silently. I used the color of green in a monochromatic style which is symbolically for mental Health. People are screaming for help.

Elderberry Club is a group of women living with memory loss who are committed to living full, meaningful lives together. With the support of caring friends, we uplift one another and stay actively engaged in our community, donating our time and talents to local causes.

We believe we are not our diagnosis. We are vibrant, courageous, socially connected women who still have so much to offer. Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s words about embracing life without fear, we strive to make every moment matter.

Hand in hand, we continue to grow, laugh, contribute, and live our best lives — because we are barely elders.

It is important to recognize that no one is free unless everyone is free. Our liberation is connected.

She dances where history once said no. Her presence is exact and intentional. A Black ballerina visible on this stage bends time forward. Her movement carries the girls who were told to wait, to soften, to shrink. She refuses those instructions through motion and breath. This visibility becomes a bridge, linking tradition and tomorrow, linking those once missing with those now arriving. Each turn affirms belonging. Each step writes authorship into the space. The spotlight does not define her. She reshapes what light means through her own motion.

This piece is Transmanian Devil. At it’s center a Tasmanian Devil, an animal often thought of as aggressive but in reality only acts aggressive when cornered, conducting a great symphony of beautiful music. Transmanian Devil casts a great trans flag over the canvas and into the world. Spreading a great blanket of sound saying you are loved to people often treated poorly. You are loved and you are beautiful. Sing your beauty into the world.

I used Copic marker on Bristol vellum to bring Transmanian Devil to the world. I sketch everyday and I put pride flags into a lot of my work. It means a lot to me that people are protected and feel valued. I yearn for the day that we don’t have to be loud to drown out the negative vibes in the world. When everyone is accepted for who they are.

I was an art teacher for 10 years and a commercialist for four years. I have been making cartoons for three years.

This image uses the metaphor of a chessboard to expose systemic inequality. A brick wall divides the game, separating the black and white pieces. On one side, the white team is complete, with all its figures in place. On the other, the black side consists only of pawns. This visual contrast highlights deep-rooted structures of racial, social, and migratory exclusion. The wall represents both literal and symbolic barriers that limit access, opportunity, and visibility. It asks: How can we speak of fairness or inclusion when entire groups are denied equal tools and a voice? This artwork challenges us to dismantle the systems—visible and invisible—that keep the game rigged.

I am an artist originally from Los Angeles, California, now based in Michigan. For the past six years, drawing has been a consistent and transformative part of my life. Through art, I have learned more about myself and discovered a powerful way to navigate life’s challenges.

My work is often abstract or surreal, exploring emotions and experiences that words cannot fully express. I create imagery that invites interpretation, allowing viewers to bring their own meaning to the work while I hold my own personal intentions within it.

Some of my pieces may contain graphic elements, reflecting the reality that life is not always “sunshine and rainbows.” However, at its core, my work stands for peace, love, and self-expression. I believe art is one of the most powerful ways we can express individuality and make a positive impact on others.

My painting visually illustrates the profound impact of family separation and its associated trauma. Through the creative process, I painted the handcuffed mother and the sorrowful child holding hands with interlaced fingers. I purposely painted all the figures wearing some kind of combination of red, white, and blue. The doll represents the aspirations and challenges faced by individuals seeking a better life, and the often-complex realities of the American Dream. The child is painted wearing white to represent her innocence.

This artwork features individuals who use wheelchairs, canes or other assistive devices. They come together to create a shared scene by drawing and adding color to their tools. In one part of the painting, a child scribbles on a rough, worn wall. I see this wall as a symbol of society’s uncomfortable gaze toward physical differences. The act of drawing on that wall represents the hope that these social perspectives can change. I was inspired by a childhood memory of drawing and writing messages of encouragement on a friend’s cast. Just like the warmth I felt back then, I believe discomfort doesn’t have to be hidden; rather, it can become a bridge for understanding and connection between people.

This colored pencil drawing depicts a warm scene in which a grandson whose native language is English learns to write in his grandmother’s language — traditional Chinese. The grandson writes “love” to his grandma, and she texts back on her smartphone, “My grandson, I’m proud of you!” The difference between the generations is bridged by language, learning, and their love for each other.The speech bubble reflects everyday texting, symbolizing that the grandmother is embracing technology and learning to text for her grandson. This drawing highlights the contrast between traditional communication and contemporary methods, as well as between youth and age. It shows that learning another person’s culture or language can be an act of respect. This effort not only changes the means of communication but also demonstrates how gaps can be bridged through understanding and seeing the world from another’s perspective.

Silent Scream portrays the invisible anguish of those battling mental illness, often dismissed or disbelieved because others have it worse. The figure lies curled in an oppressive, surreal space, surrounded by walls etched with desperate pleas that no one hears. The scratched “HELP” and chaotic marks reflect the internal storm hidden behind masks of normalcy. The ember cradled in the figure’s hands represents a fragile spark of hope, identity or resilience — a quiet defiance against despair. The open doors lead nowhere, underscoring isolation and the illusion of escape. This work invites viewers to confront what is easily overlooked: the silent suffering around us. It calls for empathy, urging us to see beyond appearances and listen to the pain that often goes unheard.

My painting explores the beauty of cultural diversity through the act of sharing a meal. I painted children from different backgrounds eating lunch together and exchanging foods from their own cultures. This moment illustrates how curiosity, kindness, and openness can spark understanding and connection. I was inspired by a childhood memory of feeling uncomfortable eating my traditional Korean lunch around friends, fearing it might seem strange or unpleasant. Instead of judgment, my friends showed curiosity, asking about my food and wanting to try it. This led to a potluck where everyone brought dishes from their own cultures. Through this, we embraced our differences and created an opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness of our traditions.

Although we have different skin colors, lifestyles, and social positions, at a basic level we are all members of the same human species. We can observe differences, but these are shaped by social constructs. It is precisely this social illusion that distinguishes us from other animals on Earth. Our identity, perspective, and values set us apart from other species and make our personalities unique. You may not like someone’s way of life, but you should respect it, as long as it does not cause physical or emotional harm.

With so much important advocacy around racism and LGBTQ+ rights, I wanted to take a different perspective and explore another challenge people face. That led me to think about amputees and the hardships they must overcome in a society where most people have all four limbs. These experiences can affect anyone — children, adults or seniors. I chose to illustrate two children playing together, showing that their disability does not limit their joy. The piece reflects both the innocence of youth and the reality that life can change for anyone. Most importantly, it carries a message of hope: that adaptation is possible and that disadvantages do not have to define one’s life.

My artwork reflects the complexities of growing up biracial. The girl in the center is surrounded by hands—some straightening her hair, some braiding it, and others painting her skin black or white—representing my personal struggles with race. These actions symbolize how society pressures mixed-race individuals to choose sides, conform to standards, or fit into a single identity. The butterflies around her serve as reminders that nothing is static and symbolize the importance of embracing the inner beauty of being different or mixed. Her tears, falling from her eyes, depict both the pain of constant judgment and the resilience required to exist as you are, illustrating the journey it takes. Through this imagery and my personal experiences, I hope to bring recognition to individuals like me and help others understand the pride and growth that come from being both and neither.

My work is a celebration of ancestral wisdom, global unity, and the enduring strength of cultural identity. Drawing on the visual language of traditional textiles, sacred geometry, and indigenous portraiture, I create vibrant compositions that honor the diversity of humanity while affirming our shared planetary story. Each figure in my work represents not just a culture or continent, but a living thread in the intricate fabric of collective memory. At the heart of this work is a call to remembrance: to honor the land, listen to our elders, and recognize the sacredness of difference. The central globe cradled by the figure is a symbol of stewardship and unity, a reminder that despite our many paths, we all share one home. In a world fractured by division, my art offers a vision of humanity not as separate, but as sacredly interconnected.

Fractured Reflections captures the haunting duality of service and survival. An African American female veteran stands before a weathered mirror, her civilian self confronting the ghost of her younger, battle-hardened past. Cracks in the glass slightly distort her reflection, symbolizing fractured memories and the lingering impact of war. The American flag overlays the image, a reminder of duty, sacrifice, and the cost of service. Bloodied handprints, boot imprints, and splatters stain the walls—echoes of violence, resilience, and an identity forever shaped by war. Through this piece, I explore the silent battles fought long after the uniform is folded away, a testament to the courage, loss, and unbreakable spirit of women in the military.

New York, Manhattan, 2022 USATF Masters Indoor Championships at The Armory — Richard, 95, left, wearing bib No. 819, greets his friend Vance, 92, of the Philadelphia Masters Club, wearing bib No. 309. Though they are close in age, Genzingler runs in a younger category, M90 (men 90-94). Meet the seniors defying norms in categories such as 85-89, 95-99 and even over 100. Seniors are disrupting outdated notions of aging by running, jumping and throwing themselves into competitive sports. But it’s not all about winning. Beyond personal achievement, sports provide a sense of belonging at an age when losing family and friends becomes more frequent. Social engagement helps fight loneliness and depression and benefits overall health. Deafening cheers accompany every athlete as friends congratulate one another in an emotionally charged atmosphere where every participant is a winner.

I created this artwork to show that, while seated side by side, a mother and her two daughters each escape into their own digital worlds. The piece reflects the silent distance technology creates. Despite sharing the same space, they experience life differently, shaped by age, identity, and emotional needs. “Embracing Our Differences” means recognizing not just visible differences, but also how we connect, feel, and communicate.

I depicted a peaceful, private moment of creation: an older person knitting a colorful scarf from threads of various hues and textures. Each ball of yarn symbolizes a distinct identity, culture, or viewpoint, interwoven harmoniously rather than uniformly. The scarf, decorated with a rainbow of patterns and colors, represents how each unique thread, despite its differences, contributes to something warm, beautiful and complete. This artwork is a call to embrace and celebrate our differences. In a society that often encourages conformity, our individuality is what makes us truly strong. Just as a scarf’s diversity of threads gives it character, society thrives when we value and respect one another’s identities.

We learned about identity in first grade. Just like a quilt, the many pieces of our identity create something beautiful when you put us together. Our identity quilt includes drawings and words that represent our identities.

Dancing is universal! It has the potential to break language barriers and is a fun way to learn about other traditions.

Being Black means you walk around with many faces. Being a Black artist, you hope for many chances and see none. Being a Black woman artist, your chances are slim and the odds are against you. Over 20 years in this industry I am continuing to advocate for people of color and help maintain mental health through art. I am that Black girl who does that Black art.

“This painting is a tribute to my Filipino heritage, drawing inspiration from Amihan—the northeast wind—and Diwa—the soul or spirit. These deeply rooted Filipino concepts symbolize freedom, inner strength, and the connection between nature and the self.

The gentle breeze of Amihan moves through the figure, representing the unseen forces that guide us forward. The ocean reflects Diwa, vast and calm, mirroring the depth of our thoughts and emotions. Together, they create harmony between movement and stillness, capturing the balance between the outer world and the inner self.

Through this work, I celebrate the resilience and quiet strength woven into Filipino identity and culture. It is an invitation to reflect on how nature shapes who we are and how, like the wind and sea, we can be both powerful and free.”

“My Heart” is a testament to the enduring strength of family and the boundless power of love. This piece speaks to the deep, unspoken connection between a mother and child—a bond that nurtures, protects, and uplifts through every challenge. The warm, vibrant colors reflect the richness of our shared humanity and the beauty found in moments of care and devotion.

Family is where we find our strength. It’s where we first learn to love, to hope, and to fight for a better world. “My Heart” honors the families that build communities and the love that holds us together, even when the world feels heavy.

This work is a call to action for us all to create spaces where every family, every individual, is seen, valued, and celebrated. We each have a role in making our communities more inclusive and compassionate. Let this piece remind you of the importance of love, not just in our homes, but in how we treat one another out in the world.”

Look Up captures a profound moment of reflection, self-care, and hope. This piece portrays the act of looking upward, symbolizing a shift in perspective, a moment of pausing to reconnect with oneself and find clarity amidst life’s chaos. The vibrant colors and expressive brushstrokes reflect the complexity of emotions we navigate on the journey toward self-awareness and healing.

The upward gaze is a universal gesture of seeking guidance, strength, or peace, reminding us of the importance of caring for our mental and emotional well-being. Look Up encourages viewers to take a moment for themselves, to breathe, and to find beauty in the act of slowing down and reconnecting with what truly matters.

Through this work, I invite others to embrace self-care and recognize the power of even the simplest actions in reclaiming balance and serenity in their lives.”

Here I explore the beauty of community and shared responsibility. Through the vibrant, imperfect homes nestled closely together, this watercolor and mixed-media piece speaks to the diversity and individuality of lives lived side by side. The uneven shapes, weathered textures, and varied colors of the houses highlight the imperfections that make each home and each person, unique. Yet, their closeness emphasizes a shared bond, a reminder that community is built on connection and interdependence.
At the center of the piece, a figure carefully balances the Earth, embodying the resilience and care required to sustain both our neighborhoods and our planet. Surrounding the homes are cosmic elements, soft galaxies and sparkling stars, blurring the line between the intimate and the infinite, showing how our everyday lives are woven into the fabric of a much larger universe.

This collective existence is where imperfections and closeness coexist to form something beautifully human.

Our art is about how the world is bad and good. It’s about how people can change the world. It’s about helping to save the world.

I’ve always wished to share my thoughts and feelings with others in a way that makes them feel what I feel. This is especially true regarding issues that shape our world view. Words are not enough and in fact, for me, they are dense and inadequate.  Expressing through visual arts goes straight to the heart, a short cut straight to the mind’s eye. It is my signature, created with my own hand.  My favorite tools are color and contrast. Both of these generate excitement in my world.

I chose to create this piece for Embracing Our Differences because it does not matter what color you are, it’s about what’s on the inside that counts.

I chose to create three girls together taking a photo. This shows that we should embrace our differences because they are all different and have different skin colors.

What’s happening to our children
what legacy do we leave
what thoughts of violence hate and distrust
do we teach them to believe
what’s happening to our children
growing up unwanted, abandoned
feeling they have no use
dying or suffering from starvation,
drugs, aids, sexual and physical abuse
what’s happening to our children
what laws protect them
before their cry is heard
without stripping them of their rights
their undaunted words
what’s happening to our children
is probably the same thing
that has happened too many
like you, like me
it is up to us to acknowledge it
to fight it, correct it
so our children can be free

The reason I drew this piece is to show that anyone and everyone can be true friends. For my piece I used colored pencils, watercolors, and a white and purple paint marker. The person who inspired me to draw this piece was my art teacher Debra Ennis. She is such a good art teacher and friend to lots of people.

My work represents a dove of peace filled with pattern. The black and white patterns serve to contrast the turbulent and troubling times in our world. The dove is shown to represent that we all have a role in creating peace around us. The song, Let There Be Peace on Earth, and its verse, inspired me in creating this work. The dove is illustrated as flying from the darkness into a rainbow of colors representing unity and love. Each day we must search for the positive things in our lives and keep our sights on those things. Within the pattern of the dove is the word “PEACE”. It’s repeated 7 times throughout the design. Research shows that if we hear or see something 5-7 times, it’s transfers from short-term to long-term memory. Hopefully my work will serve to inspire each person to find peace in their own lives and to work to find peace in our communities.
 

My artwork talks about no school shootings and I used colored pencils.

How do you feel about it? I feel bad because other parents do not want to hear that something happened to their kids.

Thylicia Babumba is currently a 10th grader at Huron High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She enjoys learning about the people and history of the world before her and after her and how it impacts her today. She is a participant member of the Girls Group and volunteers at Uganda Community of Michigan.

The art piece is about envisioning a future for African Americans without the binds of society. A time when being is so liberating to mind and soul. Weaving Afrofuturism, Spirituality, and the dynamics of African American Men and Women, to explore the achievable.

Using oil pastels wanting to give the illusion that what you see in front of you is a concept. This piece reflects the ideas of inclusiveness

My picture shows different hands embracing love and peace.

I made this because people always want to fit in with the crowd, but they don’t need to they can just embrace themselves and be themselves. Being weird and being yourself is cool

I created this piece to show women coming together for equality and against discrimination because of their gender.

This work was created by students in Ms. Dodge’s 3rd grade class and Ms. Flynn’s Young Five’s class at Lawton Elementary School in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The two classes are Reading Buddies and come together for weekly collaborative projects.

This art was inspired by the book, A Little Spot of Kindness by Diane Alber. In class, students followed Spot on his journey to show kindness. Students each made a dot to represent themselves and to serve as a reminder to always be kind. Students made the connection between their “Spot” of kindness and how being helpful and kind can help overcome discrimination and injustice in the world. Students were asked, what will your “Spot” of kindness inspire you to do?

“My spot of kindness inspires me to encourage people to reach for their goals.”
“My spot of kindness inspires me to help if someone is getting bullied.”
“My spot of kindness inspires me to help when someone gets treated unfairly.”

Together, we can make the world a better place.

Teacher Delaney Dodge   (under third grade)

and Teacher Katie Flynn  (under early Fives)

The reason I chose this piece is because I often find myself stuck in my mind. One side represents bad thoughts and the other side represents good thoughts and, in the end, she realizes she is human and she is good enough.

Students in Ms. Wier’s 3rd grade class at King Elementary School in Ann Arbor, Michigan created this artwork.

It’s inspired by the book, Drawn Together by Minh Le. This book is about a Vietnamese grandfather and his American grandson who don’t speak the same language, however, they both love to draw and find a whole new way to communicate.

In class, each student designed a strip of paper that described themselves. Students then wove their papers together to create this unique weaving. Here is what students said about the story and their work:

“If you can’t talk to someone, try to show it.”
“It was sweet and reminded me of my grandpa!”
“To me it means you can talk with drawings.”
“It is hard when you don’t know a family member’s language.”
“To me, it means that there’s more than one way of communicating.”
“Drawing connects people.”
“Art is a language in itself.”

We are each different but when we come together, we create a unique community. This work illustrates how art can connect us all.”

“Diversity – Like a beautiful garden, we’re all different.

Explaining My Art: As an artist, I studied fashion illustration years ago. I love working with color and mixed mediums, such as acrylics, watercolors, oil paints, colored pencils, and markers.

Creative Process: I centered my painting collage on different cultures and fashions because I wanted to try something different. I love the variety of cultures and the clothes worn.

What The Theme Means To Me: Our country is a melting pot of diversity and we should value, respect and celebrate different cultures and cultural expressions.”

As part of my multifaceted identity, I am both an artist and an environmental advocate. “The Mess of Our Consumerism” exhibits this intersection. I use the aesthetic contrast of waste and nature to express the negative impact of fast fashion on the environment. Oftentimes we do not realize the impact of the waste we produce or where it ends up after we are done with it. But it is in coming together, acknowledging our responsibility to reduce our impact on the environment, that the detrimental effects of overconsumption and climate change can be mediated. It takes bravery to stand up for what you believe in, and this painting presents a visualization of overconsumption that can spark action. “The Mess of Our Consumerism” is my passionate hope for a future for all, where we care for the earth we live on.

Friendship is blind to skin color and ethnicity. These schoolboys were waiting to start their viewing of the James Barnor exhibition at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Barnor is a well known Ghanian photographer. They had a friendly but slightly guarded relationship with each other and they seemed a bit apprehensive, yet excited, about entering the exhibition. School friendships are certainly unique, and these boys demonstrate that.

My street photography attempts to show our humanity in its most positive form. We are all different and we relate to our environment differently. But we are connected in so many ways and in the end, we are more similar than different.

Occasionally, there are elements of our surroundings that need to be captured and displayed in hopes of leading to change and I will photograph these scenes and people when they present themselves.

My goal is to show humanity as it affects me in hopes that it will touch others as well.

Self-awareness and self-acceptance as a Black American woman come from understanding the indestructible spirit of our origins. Free? exemplifies this by portraying five generations of my family (four generations of maternal lineage), each face representing a different era. From ascending to descending order, the work honors the past and present. From right to left, the faces include my great-great-grandmother Mary Ellen, my great-grandmother Freddie Lee, my grandmother Edna, my mother Karla, and finally, descending to infant me.

Each face carries the weight of history, resilience, and hope. Together, they symbolize the transgressions of time, and the dreams passed down through generations.

This digital photo collage and painting serves as a powerful reminder to the Black community to honor where we came from and celebrate the ancestors who paved the way for our existence.

Ultimately, ‘Free?’ reflects the sentiment: “We come from ancestors of greatness; we must live to honor them.”

My artwork is about LGBTQ+. This is an important issue because I want people to feel safe to be who they are and should not be ashamed for loving someone. To create this art piece first I sketched the layout of the hearts and words, then I painted it with water color. I really like how my art piece has so much color. Something I would do differently next time is do the words with sharpie because the paint smudged and made the red look bad.

My artwork is about celebrating diversity. This is an important issue because there is difficulty in accepting diversity. To create this art piece first I made my draft and then sketched it out of the final paper. Then I added the outline, next, I added the watercolor, and finally colored pencils and small details. I really like how my art piece shows the emotions of the characters nicely and how the colors work well together. Something I would do differently next time is make the background lighter and do it first instead of last.

My artwork is about mental health. This is an important issue because I have friends and family with depression. To create this art piece, first I sketched it out, then I put it on the big piece of paper and chose what color I should use. I don’t really like my art piece because it is simple. Something I would do differently next time is add details!

My artistic mindset is predominantly positive black cultural representational images, with a spiritual (Christian) component. My guiding motivation is to not “bury” my God given “talent”! I choose and love themes and subject matter that I find interesting and thought provoking. My artistic training (some formal) has been lots of practice, failures, successes, patience, and determination. I use a host of multimedia processes including traditional and digital techniques. My submission “My Daddy Changed The World” was a quote from George Floyd’s daughter after the death of her “daddy”. Thank you for this opportunity!

One Bond causes other bondage to break!

“For over 30 years, I have explored various forms of artistic expression, engaging with different media to communicate my experiences and emotions. Currently a student at Maharishi International University (MIU), my practice is enriched by my love for nature, meditation, and the exploration of consciousness.

My art draws inspiration from concepts such as chakras and shadow work, exploring themes of unity within diversity. I believe in the power of art to transcend individual experiences, fostering a sense of connection to a larger, conscious divinity. Through my art, I aim to invite viewers to reflect on their own journeys, encouraging an exploration of inner and outer worlds. Ultimately, my goal is to create pieces that resonate with the viewer, reflecting the beauty and complexity of life’s shared experiences.”

Neither the war nor destruction prevented the people from holding a community breakfast, which is an important tradition in the month of Ramadan. They were determined to revive the community breakfast amid the rubble.

I navigate the affecting landscape of vulnerability in boys, acknowledging the profound strength that emerges when authenticity is allowed to flourish. I endeavor to contribute to the cultivation of a society that extends recognition and appreciation to boys, offering them the metaphorical ‘flowers’ they rightfully deserve. By challenging stereotypes and celebrating individuality, this aims to be a catalyst for change, fostering an environment where differences are embraced, and the unique essence of each boy is celebrated as a vital contribution to the diverse tapestry of humanity.

 

It is the rare moment that an image appears right in front of you that exactly captures a critical issue. Then, if you have the presence of mind to shake off your amazement and act, you take that photo. When I was young, there were signs in my public library (which I visited frequently) that stated, “Do Not Remove This Book.” It meant that they were protecting that book. It was a valuable book, or they only had one copy. Now, that label has a harsher meaning. It cries out, “You cannot learn about diverse thoughts. You cannot learn about ugly truths or beautiful ideals.” The book is no longer being protected. We are being protected from knowledge.

 

Colors Matter is a homage to Ruby Bridges and her famous 1960 walks to school which paved the way to end racial segregation in the US educational system. It is also inspired by Norman Rockwell’s painting The Problem We All Live With (1964). The title, however, is taken from recent horrors which show that even today there are still miles to go. In this case, however, the focus is moved to a wider perspective, celebrating not just the hope for the end of racial discrimination but also hinting that we cannot afford diversity to become an endangered species in a world that is increasingly dominated by mainstream culture. The picture belongs to my series Mousographs which follows the concepts of minimal art and graffiti. 

To view more artwork by Alexander Kupfer from his mousographs series, visit his website: https://www.mousographs.com/

My work explores the hardships of the female experience and the many forms it can take. I choose to create pieces investigating issues I am passionate about; they are universal problems that I want to represent through painting and printmaking. In my works, I am influenced by Latin- American artists and sculptors in combination with the influence of living in London and seeing so many creatives at work daily.

 

A young girl at the international swimming championship among athletes with disabilities. A second before the start in Minsk, Belarus.

 

My art explores self-acceptance and diverse human experiences through portraiture. Guided by the belief that eyes reveal the soul, I capture individuals’ portraits, witnessing their personal journeys. In my latest oil painting, I depict the transformative passage from self-loathing to self-acceptance. The left side portrays the struggle for true desires and authentic identity, represented by black, white, and blue tones symbolizing emptiness and despair. Moving towards the center, a confident figure emerges, embracing their unique identity. Vibrant colors and makeup symbolize inner liberation and self-expression, while a genuine smile reflects the joy of self-acceptance. Universal connectivity is depicted through stars below, while the rainbow sky above signifies acceptance and celebration of individuality. The transition from darkness to vibrant beauty is mirrored in the caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly. Through my art, I aim to inspire viewers to embrace their uniqueness, embark on self-discovery, and find daily happiness.

 

While this image of the child with tear filled eyes is a product of my imagination, she represents the reality of what thousands of migrant children confront at the United States and Mexican borders. There is a humanitarian and moral disconnect between the worlds that embodies the national spirit and conscience: give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free (excerpt from the 1903 inscription on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty); and the continued dysfunction of our immigration and asylum system. As an increasingly polarized Congress continues to avoid approving humane legislative immigration reform, a child with pleading outstretched hands reaches through a barbed wire fence as to ask “what about the children yearning to breathe free?”

 

There is an old saying in China called “fifty-six nationalities, fifty-six flowers, fifty-six brothers and sisters are one family.” My country has so many cultures and so much inclusiveness. I grew up in this environment. In my opinion every country, race, and person in the world is also many different flowers. These flowers can be the same family. I used flowers as the elements of my creation. I made these flowers grow from one root and I added several representative races with their national flowers. I also wanted to include people with disabilities, so I drew a beautiful girl with a prosthetic leg in the bottom left corner.

 

Even though we live in the 21st century, we still see conflicts between people of different races. In my art, I showed the friendship between a Black person and a white person from their childhood to old age. So, if we live without comparing people by their outside appearance, we would be able to make a beautiful, happy society.