When My Artwork Became a Book Cover

In March 2024, one of my paintings — Isa — had the honor of making its debut as the cover artwork for the book Laid to the Side by Danielle Apugo and Afiya Mbilishaka.

"Laid to the Side is a landmark collection of hair stories that explores the meaning of hair and Black women’s identity development within the context of schools. Through powerful narratives, the book invites readers to consider the profound role hair plays in the lives of Black girls and women, particularly in educational spaces where identity, belonging, and self-expression are often negotiated.

The stories illuminate the responsibility educators and caregivers carry in recognizing and celebrating the cultural and personal significance of hair. At its heart, the book encourages the creation of learning environments where every part of a young person’s identity is treated as a source of dignity, strength, and empowerment."

Being asked to have my artwork represent this work was deeply meaningful to me.

As a Black woman with natural hair, I understand the complicated relationship many of us have navigated with our hair — the scrutiny, the expectations, and the unspoken rules. But I also carry another part of that story.

I was raised in a home where my hair was nurtured as something beautiful. Something worthy. Something that reflected the fullness of who I was.

That experience planted early seeds of self-love and authenticity, which is what I had in mind when I created Isa. The goal of Isa was to honor little Black girls. I chose to do this by highlighting their hairstyles, which are often works of art — crafted by the loving hands of mothers, sisters, aunts, and caregivers. The care, time, and tenderness that goes into those moments are quiet expressions of love and protection.

Through the painting, I sought to honor that ritual and to remind  little girls that they are  seen, loved, and most of all beautiful.

Moments like this continue to affirm why I create.