Blingblingguninthebaggie (2016) is a mixed-media series that revisits and reinterprets the influence of Blaxploitation films on Caribbean and African communities. These films, notorious for their exaggerated depictions of African American life, often perpetuated harmful stereotypes that extended far beyond the American context, affecting the global perception of Black identities. The series introduces modern avatars, Queen Nappy and YoYo Yolanda, who serve as central figures in challenging these enduring archetypes, such as the Sapphire and Jezebel tropes. Through their depiction, the series reclaims and redefines these images, offering a critique of how these stereotypes have historically constrained Black women’s identities.
The project employs a vibrant mix of painting, photography, and printmaking to create a dialogue between Caribbean, African, and African American cultures. By layering these mediums, Blingblingguninthebaggie constructs a rich visual tapestry that highlights the interconnectedness of these cultures and their shared histories. The series emphasizes the visual language of Hip Hop aesthetics, particularly focusing on cultural signifiers like "bling" and "baggie," which have become emblematic of certain aspects of Black identity in popular culture. These symbols are deconstructed and recontextualized within the series, inviting viewers to reconsider their meanings and implications.
By exploring the intersections of history, gender, and culture, Blingblingguninthebaggie prompts critical reflection on how stereotypes and perceptions have been shaped over time. The project invites viewers to engage with these layers, encouraging them to think deeply about the cultural narratives that continue to influence and define communities. Through its multifaceted approach, the series not only critiques the past but also offers a space for envisioning new possibilities for representation and identity in the present and future.
Material: screen print, rabbit skin glue, synthetic water-soluble polyvinyl acetate emulsion, dry paint pigment for both the egg tempera, encaustic and oil paint.