Jayln Giles-Ewell
As a Black, queer woman, my artwork is simply a culmination of my experiences. I also would describe my process as an explorative study of some of the questions I have not only in regard to how I think, but how others think. Within our group show in•flux, my two pieces are essentially an extension of my questioning, in which I attempt to understand what identity means to other queer people, and how that process of self-authenticity feels for other people.
“self-identity”
Video • Documentary • 16 minutes • 2021
In the short documentary, “self-identity”, I interview around 12 individuals on what identity means to them, as well as their individual journeys of how they’ve managed to find their own self-identity.
“live your truth”
Drawing • Mixed media collage and chalk pastels on paper roll • 70 x 72 inches • 2021
“live your truth” is essentially an illustrative commentary on the phrase and depicts the overall overwhelming feeling of what an individual feels in regard to understanding their journey as a queer individual. I use paper roll, chalk pastels, and also collaged journal entries, screen captures, and newspaper clippings in order to further depict the internal contemplation that comes with further understanding one’s identity.
