“The First Lady.”

 This young lady… Shaylaface.

Honestly, I don’t even have the words for how she makes me feel.

I’ve known her for quite some time, and she’s always stood out—in the best way.
She’s got the footprints to prove it.
Her mother holds a part of my heart too.
No matter how much time passes, I’ll always root for her… because she’s been a gift to so many.

We couldn’t miss this one—Shayla’s piece.

And let me tell you, this photo? It doesn’t even begin to capture it.

It’s hair.
Laid down in intricate patterns—beautiful, detailed, intentional.
It speaks to her roots.
Miami born and bred.
You can see how the South shaped her story and how she’s finding her voice in so many spaces now.

And it’s beautiful to witness.

I felt like a proud auntie.
Loren? A proud uncle.

We also got to experience the other artists’ exhibits—Heaven (the curator) and Philovion.
Hearing them speak on what brought them to this moment…
Whew. It hit me emotionally.

I’m grateful they created a space where we could all be part of something real, from the heart.
A space that honored art, identity, and community.

I can’t wait to see what they continue to bring.
For the culture. By the culture.

The piece shown is titled


“The First Lady.”
Exhibited at the Marshall Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center in Liberty City.