As a figurative narrative painter, I create images using Black people as subject matter in order to insert stories of Black Americans into the history of Western painting. I use familiar yet nontraditional surfaces and mediums for my work, including found objects, cardboard, signage, and drop cloths. These materials have been used in protest, and are taken from everyday life. As a Black male, I empathize with cardboard for being found everywhere, considered easily replaceable, being brown, and being layered. I want to contribute to diversity in the art market and art history by critiquing and responding to my environment while reflecting on the Black experience.