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Past, Present, Future was a creation prompt generated in JAYU's iAM Collaging program where youth human rights and arts training intersect to provide professional development for equity-seeking youth between the ages of 12 - 29. During the pandemic, many programs moved to virtual format to create a community beyond physical distancing limitations. At the time, I didn't know what to for my career and I eventually settled on going back to school for Arts Management after spending much of the summer months in free arts programs for my mental wellness.
In this digital collage series, I created self-portraits reflecting a ripple of thoughts from past turbulence and my present self-affirming actualization of growth. Through the progression of natural elements, from infertile grounds to flourishing ecosystem, I share my development and intentions of being a creative professional thriving in the arts sector.
Past
I aim to establish stronger roots, stay resilient, and continue my journey of self-reflection.
Present
I aim to grow and connect with community in ways that develop symbiotic relationships of empowerment and enrichment.
Future
I aim to be a catalyst for change in an ecosystem of creatives that see the value of mentorship and paying it forward.
Forever
I will always aim to evolve.
About JAYU iAM Programming & Annual Report Art Feature
JAYU is a registered Canadian charity and a leader in the space where the arts and human rights intersect. They believe that the arts provide the strongest platform to share human rights stories to educate, to build empathy, to heal, to forge community and to inspire the kinds of conversations necessary to reimagine a more just and equitable world.
JAYU's iAM programs provide a platform for marginalized youth to take up space and make their voices heard through artistic development in collage, photography, painting, poetry, and more! Through these programs, emerging artists gain access to paid opportunities to feature their works.
My work was selected to be featured in JAYU's 2021 Annual Program Report
