Last year I received the most incredible call from such a talented artist named JP (Jermaine Powell) who chose 8 leaders in North Carolina to showcase the celebration of human resilience and what JP refers to as “post-pandemic leadership.” His exhibit of these leaders showcases members of both the local and global communities and how they discovered new ways to create, innovate, and lead during a challenging time in human history.
NCMA commissioned PJ for these pieces and it has been such a beautiful journey. I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know him as a human being, he interviewed me, we laughed together, and we spoke about how we both use different mediums to help make a mark on the world.
Last night was the exhibition opening and I was completely blown away. He captured my essence, my spirit, and I was completely mesmerized by his authentic & artistic talent.
This exhibition opening comes at a time when I did not know how much I needed it. I have just been hammering away day after day, year after year, and last night gave me pause for thought on how far I have come, where I want to continue to go, and why I do what I do.
I wish I had the beautiful skill to create a masterpiece like this, but I’m so thankful this exhibit will be up until May so I can feel inspired when I need a little bit of inspiration myself. Thank you, PJ, for all that you do! This picture simply doesn’t do the piece justice as there is so much dimension that a 2D photo does not reflect. If you live in the Raleigh area, I highly recommend you come see all of his works of art!
Who inspires you on a daily basis? Where do you get a little inspiration pick me up when things are challenging in your life?
I receive much of my inspiration from others, particularly in my disability community and in my beautiful speaker community. Thank you each for consistently pushing me to accomplish what I never believed I could when I broke my neck 14 years ago.
