Specimen
Specimen is an extension of the metaphorical transformation of the ancestral being—namely, individuals of the African diaspora—into sculptural form. The embroidery floss-based figures in this work trace their conceptual origins to Hearts [Like Diamonds], a large site-specific installation that reimagined Houston’s Fifth Ward as a mine, where diamonds are forged under immense pressure. In this context, the pressures are societal: discriminatory forces applied indiscriminately to all residents within the historically redlined district.
Specimen No. 1 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 3 x 3 x 8 in • 2021
Specimen No. 1 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 3 x 3 x 8 in • 2021
Specimen No. 2 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 3x 3 x 4.5 in • 2021
Specimen No. 2 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 3x 3 x 4.5 in • 2021
Specimen No. 3 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 5.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 in • 2021
Specimen No. 3 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 5.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 in • 2021
Specimen No. 3 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 5.5 x 4.5 x 6.5 in • 2021
Caged No. 1 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, metal bird cage • 6 x 5 x 10.5 in • 2021
Caged No. 1 • Embroidery floss, clear cord, metal bird cage • 6 x 5 x 10.5 in • 2021
Ancestor's Release • Bird cage, embroidery floss, filament • 17 x 18 x 10 in • 2021
Ancestor's Release • Bird cage, embroidery floss, filament • 17 x 18 x 10 in • 2021
Specimens • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 7 x 7 x 9 in • 2022
Specimens • Embroidery floss, clear cord, corked glass jar • 7 x 7 x 9 in • 2022