Finding Our TrHue
IG @ramcreates
Black people were forced to assimilate into a society that was never created for us, yet we’ve found ways to survive and thrive in it. “TrHue” (True Hue) represents black people in America burning away the colorful, misleading veil of equality while facing our fear of the unknown of creating a new social structure.
We've come to a point on our long journey up the precipice of equality where we're no longer okay using the techniques and tools of the past to get the recognition and respect we're due. As we burn away the systems and media used to suppress us, we truly embrace our collective blackness and feel a deeper connection to our ancestors who fought before us.
“...we’ve come to a time to push beyond the status quo and forge a new place in society...”
But as we burn away the world we know, we may be fearful of facing who we are without the comforts we are so fond of. With so much of our history and culture being lost, hidden, or misrepresented, how do we identify in the new world order we wish to create? We must face the fear of the unknown, reforming our identities without the comforts that assimilation gave us — a sense of belonging. While it may not be as blatant as previous generations, black people in most of Western society are considered inferior, second class citizens.
We have continued to make progress, but we've come to a time to push beyond the status quo and forge a new place in society that we rightfully deserve. It can be overwhelming to focus on how we individually can move the needle forward — some protest, some donate, some vie for positions of authority, while others creat art, write, and forge spaces for dialogue to start and continue. No one is meant to do all the things so we all as a collective must use our strengths and voices in the bests ways possible to continue to make progress.
Inspired by conversations with @lakerosemusic
Artist Statement
The surreal approach to Rashad’s work combines diverse materials and methods to offer a glimpse into his perpetual quest to connect to his ancestry, community, and nature. His work is an amalgamation of painting, collaging, photography, along with his signature gilding to incite reverence to his heritage via symbols and elaborate patterns. As a member of the African diaspora, his work is a reflection of deep-rooted blood memories connected to his lineage. After traveling to Africa, he recognized he innately drew upon his heritage’s use of color and patterns, vibrant spirit for life, and links to nature. He continually aims to give reverence to his ancestors through his art.