Julie Atkinson

My work centers the emotional experience of Black women by creating images in oil paint that explore the nuances of finding self-esteem, healing and peace. My paintings often feature textured hair, embracing it as a source of pride, and affirming the beauty in its volume and shape. My work is inspired by poets like Lucille Clifton and Audre Lorde, as well as other writers who have lifted up the experiences of Black women and urged us to love ourselves. As I consider what spaces are safe Black women, I play with levels of abstraction in both the body and the background to create a dream-like image. Often I situate the woman in nature or with natural objects, as I find nature to be one of the few places Black women are not expected to perform for others. I am interested in how Black women can shut out the gaze of others and find a sense of peace and rest within themselves.