Spraying statements

Say hello to my little friend, blue spray paint. My friend Ira Hill was traveling through Mississippi on his American Expressions tour and I got the chance to voice my opinion on the state of the state. I decided instead of using markers and writing a statement I would make my statement with Possumrat.

Creating this piece gave me the chance to demonstrate to my high school students how to turn a drawing into a stencil and how to make a statement without words.

Ira was also kind enough to stop by and chat with my high school students. He talked about his work, challenges of being an artist and why compassion is important. His insights into the world of a working artist captured the attention of 26 teenagers and as you know that is an amazing feat. Respect he said was what was missing today, and that if we wanted change we needed to get back to respecting people for the simple fact that they are people and get over our fear. I can't thank him enough for taking time out of his busy schedule to talk with my students. It was a time they won't forget.

If you want to see more of Ira Hill and his amazing work check out www.irahillsculpture.com and to see more of his American Expressions tour go to www.usaexpressions.com.