- I saw one of your art exhibitions and was wowed by your “in-your-face” expression of social norms and challenging our notions of them. Please share with our readers what inspires your art?
For me it’s all about being defiantly uncompromising. I have no interest in being the latest superficial pop-art trend. Nor do I care if the color palate in my paintings matches the drapes in your living room. I think artists have a responsibility not only to challenge social norm but also to turn it on it’s ear.
- As you know Naturi Beauty embraces the experiences of women with natural hair, what has been your experience having had natural hair as an artist who has lived in Italy and the U.S.?
As a result of so many people jumping to conclusions about both myself and my work, based on nothing more than my “natural” hairstyles, this past summer I just decided to shave it all off.
- In your charge, you state “it doesn’t care what you or I think of it | It is my art” I love that statement!! Can you expound on this philosophy and how that is transferred through your life, if at all?
Well, I can paint it better than I can say it, but I’ll give it a shot. I feel that far too many artists create with the desire to have their creation win mass appeal. They would rather be accepted by the status quo than challenge it.
- I’m sure that your 2010 Calendar is full of exhibtions, artist talks and live paintings.
In which cities can Naturi Beauties spot you in be awed by your
breathatking art next ?
I am currently preparing for a major exhibition and the opening of my own art gallery, Treading the Waters. Located in the heart of Midtown here in Atlanta. I also have a few things coming up in the spring and summer locally and in DC and the U.K. as well. Updates will be posted on my website.
- The Naturi Beauty charge is to Nourish, Nurture and Grow. Please share with our readers how Tariqa Waters of Treading Waters is a Naturi Beauty everyday!
A cup of coffee in the morning, a glass of wine at night, and a little trouble in between.
