Art has always been a grounding force in my life as a young, queer Black girl growing up in a predominantly white community. Like many artists of color, I explored countless forms of self‑expression—writing, drawing, prose, hemp jewelry, even cosmetics—searching for a language that felt like mine. Today, I’ve found that language in canvas art and fine wire jewelry. These practices connect me to my humanity and spirituality, offering a bridge to my history and ancestry while giving me space to process the trauma shaped by the world around me. Art transforms that pain into something of value. That’s why it matters so deeply—not only for artists and adults, but for children too. It gives all of us a way to create something meaningful from the horror and sadness we witness, turning survival into beauty and expression into power. 

                                                                                                         -CyRhen