My latest piece, No Honor, is a compact but powerful 10×10 artwork designed to make an immediate impression. At its center, a raised fist clutches a microphone, rendered in silhouette and outlined in crisp white. This image stands for strength and empowerment—specifically the kind born from the courage to speak with respect and conviction.
The background shifts between deep purples, blues, and black, creating a moody gradient that supports the fist’s stark figure. Across this backdrop, I’ve layered the words of an African proverb: “Where there is no shame, there is no honor.” This saying grounds the piece and encourages reflection on authenticity and integrity as the foundation of respect.
Surrounding the central image is a frame of textured tissue paper in rich blue, purple, and violet tones. These layered materials add depth and vibrancy, pulling the viewer’s eye inward toward the message. Along the right edge of the printed image—produced on acid-free photo paper—a delicate string of silver-plated metal beads brings a subtle tactile element, introducing both contrast and elegance.
Creating No Honor was a process that required careful balance. Blending traditional techniques like tissue layering with digital printing allowed me to capture both texture and precision. To protect the finished work and preserve its colors, I sealed it with UV-resistant resin, ensuring it maintains its presence over time.
This piece began as a meditation on a proverb that has long resonated with me. It serves as a reminder that true honor comes from knowing when to hold yourself accountable and how to communicate with respect. The raised fist and microphone symbolize the power of voice—how speaking up thoughtfully can be a source of personal strength and social impact.
No Honor invites viewers to consider the relationship between shame, honor, and authenticity, and to recognize the strength that comes from honest communication. It’s a compact statement on integrity delivered through a blend of texture, color, and symbolic imagery crafted to resonate quietly but firmly.