A lot of people have asked how I met the Womxn I chose to photograph for this project. Some of the Womxn were introduced to me through other Womxn who particpated and some came from my own circle.

Adalia is my neighbor. We met one day at a neighborhood gathering. I connected with her immediately. She has a very caring personality and the most beautiful smile. I was fortunate to help her with promo photos for her band Knotts a few years ago. The internet helps me feel connected to people even if I don’t see them much so I have been able to watch her music grow.

Adalia was one of the first people who came to mind when I came up with the project. She is an amazing Mother to 2 sweet children, a creative, and a teacher. She balances her many roles while helping to the community grow and she adds love to everything she touches. She most recently took on the role of Project Coordinator with Girls Rock Cinci with a focus on Activism Through Music. Those girls are in for a big treat having Adalia as their leader!

Coming September 2020, ‘Heart and Soul’ is a photo installation project that was created to elevate the voices of some of Cincinnati’s amazing Black Womxn. Commissioned by Artworks and funded by FotoFocus I worked with 8 youth apprentices to make mini murals created with painted photos that will be wheat pasted on Black Owned businesses around Cincinnati.