About Afrocentric Keyy
Born and raised in Southern California, my passion for the arts began early and flourished during my years at a performing arts high school specializing in visual arts. This foundation deepened as I pursued formal studies, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts in 2013. However, by the end of my college journey, I found myself asking crucial questions: Where are the representations of people who look like me, my family, and my community? How can I create work that is unique, empowering, and thought-provoking while keeping environmental sustainability in mind?
These reflections sparked the creation of Afrocentric Keyy, an innovative artistic practice that combines eco-consciousness with bold portraiture. My work merges traditional oil painting techniques with sustainable artistry by using recycled wood as my canvas. By repurposing discarded wood, I transform “trash into treasure,” crafting distinctive portraits of human figures and animal-infused imagery. Each wood canvas has its own history, and through my art, I breathe new life into these materials, creating evolved narratives that preserve and celebrate the beauty of transformation.
I call my unique style Contemporary Afro-Realism Portraiture—a vibrant exploration of color, identity, and cultural storytelling. Inspired by viewing the world through the lens of thermal imagery, my paintings reveal the unseen: the red and green undertones of skin, the orange and blue shadows, and the golden streaks where light dances on the curvature of muscle and bone. This dynamic use of color and texture highlights the beauty, resilience, and individuality of Black women while promoting their representation within the global art landscape.
Each of my pieces is designed to spark conversations and emotional connections, celebrating the African, African American, and Afro-Caribbean diaspora. My goal is to create a two-way engagement: inviting viewers to reflect on the stories my art tells while encouraging deeper dialogue about Black identity, culture, and empowerment.
Now based in New York City, I continue to push boundaries in my creative practice. My work has been showcased across the United States and internationally, with exhibitions in Australia, Paris, London, Amsterdam, Spain, and Tokyo. These experiences have given me a global perspective on the importance of representation, especially for Black women navigating creative spaces often dominated by others.
Afrocentric Keyy has evolved beyond a name—it’s a movement, a legacy, and a celebration of the beauty and power of Black voices. My mission is to inspire others while contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable art world. Through bold colors, reclaimed materials, and impactful storytelling, I aim to leave a lasting imprint on art, culture, and the environment.