Growing up, my home was always full of Afro-centric statues, oil paintings, abstract paintings and historical figures. Who else had a picture of Black Jesus, Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr. and Harold Washington?
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| Hyde Park Mural |
Even the clothes my mom wore had remnants of artistic expression; Think of Nefertiti necklaces, black power t-shirts and bold prints. Her style was most definitely a nod to the Hip Hop culture that was heavy in the 80’s. I loved every minute of it. It was creative. It was free. It was me!
My mom was a reflection of her musical and artistic cultural surrounding, as to am I. She inherited her love for books, music and art from her mother and I got it from her. One day, maybe the torch will continue with my daughter – that’s a whole different conversation. Because, the way my eggs are set up right now lol.
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| The Chicago Picasso is an untitled monumental sculpture by Pablo Picasso in Chicago, Illinois. |
Artistic expression is apart of who I am. It’s a natural extension to my passion for verbal and written communication, which are also forms of artistic expression. My love for poetry is another blog post in it self. My heart beats creative juices. I’ve successfully integrated myself into the corporate landscape, but please don’t be fooled. I take my creativity to work with me everyday.
Chicago is a bold supporter of the arts. You can’t turn a block without seeing a mural symbolizing the melting pot of a community or historical landmarks with gorgeous detailed craftsmanship. Downtown Chicago’s Millennium Park is filled with bold structures, giant statues and monuments displaying the artistry that is Chicago.
Creativity is just apart of who we are as Chicagoans. Unapologetically bold and creative! Research from the University of Pennsylvania proves that a greater focus on the arts in a city creates social cohesion, better civic engagement and improved child welfare, and it also decreases poverty.
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Hyde Park Mural |
Now, I’m not totally sold on art decreasing poverty. I will say that being able to express yourself can contribute to higher self esteem and a feeling of accomplishment. School is tough for many people, especially if you’re not gifted with a photographic memory for studying math or reading. I’m a little bitter about my lack of memory capacity, if you can’t tell. It’s cool, I eventually made it out of college.
Art is essential to life. Before there was pen and paper there were hieroglyphics. I challenge you and your kids to find alternative ways to express your thoughts. You or your kid may just be the next Basquiat.
Join Hustle Mommies for the July 26th painting fundraiser in Bronzeville Chicago. Visit eventbrite for more details.
Mommy Making Moves by LaChanel Hemphill 