b. 1970 Altus, Oklahoma
Lives and works in Long Branch, New Jersey

“There are two themes in particular that permeate my images; the dichotomy of the blue-collar worker who exudes an unrivaled elegance on Sunday morning as they attend their various houses of worship. My earliest memories are of reading Bibles in the chapel of Altus Air Force base in Oklahoma, while my great-grandmother cleaned it from top to bottom. However, on Sundays she would morph into her role as the president of the senior usher board. Her white uniform was almost blinding in the morning sun as we walked a block over to Macedonia Baptist Church. My paintings are indicative of the world that shaped my imagination and honors the memories of the ordinary people who are the backbone of this country.

I am inspired by the resiliency of the men and women who comprise the African-American race. Upon examination of my artwork, you can effortlessly see the unwavering resolve in the eyes of the elderly and the youthful optimism in the faces of the children.” – MR