The Story of Us

Oil on canvas

Framed, 16" x 12"

My painting "The Story of Us" shows a young girl reading a book in a library, capturing the impact of queer representation in literature. I wanted to bring attention to how crucial seeing yourself in the stories you read is because of how it can make you feel seen, understood, and validated. In a time when queer books and history are being banned and erased, and public libraries and education face defunding, it is more important than ever to remind queer youth that they are not alone. Queer people have always existed in history, art, writing, and community, and always will. No matter who holds power or what laws are passed to hurt the queer community, there will always be people who will fight for their rights, safety, and joy. I also  included a tribute to Marsha P. Johnson by painting her into a framed portrait on the wall to recognize not only how far we have come in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights, but also the efforts of Black trans women who have led this fight for generations.