sonyArletta - the work

I favor the figure...singular, in an unconfined and undefined space, letting the viewer find their own story and meaning. Creating a point of dialogue that can go...anywhere...

The black female is featured prominently in my work. Often enlarged and singular on the canvas. For me she is the ultimate tool of expression. The female figure in general, is a familiar reference, with a built-in dictionary—gestures and expressions that equal certain meanings. The female figure can evoke a variety of ideas simply by being “illustrated”—even if the artist’s intention was to present only one. The black female figure embodies all of that and so much more. My work explores the myriad of tones and colors found in their skin, the multitude of textures present in their hair, the fullness of their features and the suppleness of their figures, to create images full of emotion, strength and power. It is not just about honoring the physical beauty of the black female, it is, in fact, revealing how the elements of her loveliness become tools to define, reveal, and illustrate a much richer beauty that lives beyond, beneath and un-anchored by the physical characteristics of her flesh. My work is beautiful and strong illuminating what is truly magnificent about the black female.