Keidra Gray

Stories are reflections of our experiences. Our experiences define us and mold us into who we are. My story has just begun, yet there is already so much to unfold in the first chapter. I take my inspirations, trauma, and emotions to create works of art. That is the beauty of transformation. You learn to heal through expression. You learn more about yourself, what art means to you, and how you can use it to tell people, "This is me, and this is what I've been through," hoping someone out there will hear your story and be moved by it or relate to it. I do not know where I would be without art, to be honest. A sketch would appear in my sketchbook when I felt like I had nothing or was disconnected from the world and myself. A brush stroke appears on my canvas. Streaks of ink flash in my vision. It is automatic; the next thing you know, I have created a masterpiece. I want to share my passion for art with anyone willing to take it because maybe there's a potential artist out there wanting to share their story too. A light inside us will guide us through our dark times. Through this painting, everyone can see my light and feel the light inside of themselves start to glow. 

Working on this project was really an honor, even though I decided at the last minute to join. Some of my best decisions were on a whim, and I am glad this was one of them. I was so happy to be able to spread my paints along the hugest canvas I have ever worked on, as well as collaborate with other brilliant artists. The fear and doubt I had initially felt dissipated the moment I focused on enjoying the process and having fun. I broke many barriers and opened many doors then, and I would be more than delighted to do something like this again.