Andrea Abrams (US) "Matriarch" 2024, oile på træpanel, 152 x 122 cm

Andrea Olivia Abrams

In this body of work, I explore the complex interplay between nature and nurture within the context of African American culture, viewed through the lens of my experiences as a Black trans woman.
My work delves into the tension between inherent qualities and the external forces that shape our sense of self. Each piece juxtaposes intimate portraits with symbolic elements to tell stories of resilience, transformation, and self-discovery.
Through imagery such as African American children surrounded by cultural and familial symbols, and isolated figures navigating societal expectations, my work seeks to highlight how identity is molded by both internal truths and external pressures. The use of oversized portraiture serves as a visual tool to confront and explore personal and societal issues, allowing the viewer to pause and reflect on multifaceted aspects of human experience. The grand scale of my work allows me to meticulously detail the textures and features of my subjects, capturing the raw and unfiltered essence of their inner worlds.

Artist Statement, New York, 2024