Visual art is my voice, and it comes to life through my paintings. I create art that focuses on families and relationships, highlighting the connections between individuals, families, and the environment that surrounds us. The colors I use celebrate various skin tones and the beauty of people of color. As an African American woman artist, I share powerful messages that raise awareness globally, so that we can appreciate our differences, draw strength from the past, and embrace the future.
Original Art by Willette
Revelation
Revelation begins with a painting of a young man’s face. His strong features and skin are covered in shapes that suggest light and movement. The repeating shapes represent personal growth and the journey of becoming who we aspire to be. I hope viewers see their own moments of revelation—those times when something inside them shifts or becomes clear.
Grace
Grace symbolizes God’s unmerited favor. In this painting, the young woman’s face emerges through vibrant layers, capturing light and reflection. While leaning toward abstraction, it highlights her beauty and illustrates how experiences shape our identities. Ultimately, grace represents the beauty that arises from tension, endurance, and release.
Generations
Generations is a powerful tribute to the beauty, strength, and wisdom of Black women throughout history. The four overlapping figures are engaged in conversation, symbolizing community and the bonds that connect different generations. The bold colors emphasize individuality while celebrating the rich tapestry of culture and tradition. This artwork reflects how knowledge, resilience, and love are passed down through women's voices, shaping the future while honoring the past.
Jazz Trio
In my art space, the melodies of jazz inspire me as I draw and paint. Immersed in the music, I reflect on the great musicians and their artistry. Each instrument contributes its unique sound, creating a melodic arrangement of peace and energy. This painting represents the connection between the musicians, their instruments, and the beautiful music born from their collaboration.
Anticipation
Anticipation captures resilience in the act of waiting. The young Black woman is grounded and stands out against her neutral counterparts, highlighting her strong presence. The surrounding lines suggest movement and uncertainty, while her hands clasped to her chest convey a moment of deep readiness. This painting embodies the emotional weight of anticipation and showcases her individuality and strength amidst shifting currents.
Mother and Child
This painting embodies the profound relationship between a mother and her child. It was inspired by the birth of a close friend's baby girl, celebrating the deep bond they shared even before her daughter's arrival. The neutral tones symbolize the connection to the earth and the concept of new beginnings. The overlapping circles represent the continuous cycle of life.
Expecting
The joy of parenthood and the blessing of bringing a new life into the world are truly profound experiences. Each moment is filled with happiness, anticipation, and wonder. The bond within the family deepens as two people eagerly await their beautiful gift from God. I enclosed colorful shapes with interweaving lines to symbolize this amazing connection.
Family
This painting embodies a celebration of the family unit. Lines gracefully encircle each figure and weave through the rich colors that flow around the canvas's edges. The bond between each family member is clearly expressed in their embrace, reflecting their eternal connection and the loving care they share for one another.
Family Day at the Beach
Inspired by a memorable beach visit, this painting captures a significant moment that our family shared. The bright colors of our clothing reflect our excitement as we approached the waves, while the striking hues contrast with the neutral background, highlighting our rich, dark brown skin. This artwork serves as a cherished reminder of our family's joy and connection.
Happy New Year
The New Year’s Kiss. The joy of a fresh new year brings a refreshing feeling of freedom. A newly married couple shares their first New Year with a special kiss. I wanted to capture that moment with this painting. With quick strokes of color, I filled the canvas with vibrant paint, hoping to show the energy of the couple as they began their journey of marriage.
Unity
From an early age, I recognized my family as a profound source of inspiration. The regal presence of my mother, grandmother, and aunts has shaped how I view myself and other women. My mission is to honor and preserve the memories of these remarkable women, whose strength and wisdom are immeasurable. In my works, "Unity" and "Togetherness," I depict layered portraits of women by intertwining photographs, illustrating the lineage of women in my family. The overlapping faces foster a deeper understanding of the eternal connection I share with my ancestors.
Togetherness
All artwork shown on this page is copyrighted. ©Art by Willette. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of these images is strictly prohibited.