Love Thy Brother Portrait of Darrin Grandy/Meatball by Michelle Brown

From the artist, Michelle Brown: For many years I have passed by these memorials of t-shirts representing those that have lost their lives needlessly from gun violence. I as an artist felt that these lives should be memorialized best with images of them to create a bigger impact on the on looker to understand that these were Real lives.

It was a very emotional project to complete. I had the honor of speaking to his mother Tameka Grandy, as I listened to her tell the story repeated everyday in America, I couldn't help but remember many of my students that never returned to class. I couldn't help but think of my own children and the many murders by White police officers upon black People.

I was in rage as I thought about Black on Black gun violence and Americas love affair of the NRA and the  2nd amendment. I felt deeply for all those women that have lost their lives from Democratic gun violence.

Soul Shot Portrait Project has given me the opportunity to share my gift to recreate Darrin's image as I invited him to sit with me, to feel his energy as I pushed through this painful and emotional journey

Thank You, 

Mother, Grand Mother, Activist, Artist, Educator and Designer 

From the curator: This portrait, with its layers of pattern and color, reminds me of the effect of seeing the Souls Shot exhibitions in person. As one walks in the space what is striking is the variety of styles and approaches, mediums and palates, which so beautifully points up the unique qualities of each of the souls depicted. Michelle’s use of these stunning elements and the way she weaves them together to present Darrin on a glorious throne, is a joyous tribute to this young man and his attributes.

Love Thy Brother Portrait of Darrin Grandy/Meatball by Michelle Brown acrylic on canvas 20” x 30” 2018