Each day, we experience another death, tragedy, or loss of life to violence, and we have no answers. Many people–good people–are working to help families and the community cope with the hurt and pain that comes with loss, particularly tragic loss.
As Scoop tries to support our communities, victims, and families, we have partnered with Zarinah Lomax and The Apologues to respect those we have lost by sharing portraits and brief introductions into the lives of the families that “The Apologues” has featured.
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Artist: Queen Picasso (Brittney Glover)
When It Hits Home, Acrylic on canvas
Co-victims: Stephanie Johnson and her Grandsons
Victim: Erica Hillyard
Created with Love for my cousin Erica. “Remembering the moments we had as kids. You were always on the move doing things you loved. I couldn’t wait to hear stories of where you traveled and what new things you discovered. As you grew, you kept that creative imagination, and so did I. I always felt connected to you in that way. It’s amazing to see how big the boys have gotten! Your spirit will always be with us because you were truly one of a kind. A WORK OF ART. Rest in Power Love your big cuz, Britt”.
This was tough to do because you never stop grieving after losing a family member. To be paired with my own family was no coincidence. God is truly moving, and I’m honored to paint and highlight the positive and beautiful spirit Erica had! Much love to Stephanie, my deepest condolences.
What is The Apologues?
The Apologues (under the fiscal sponsorship of the Federation of Neighborhood Centers) is a fashion and art exhibit that uses the arts to assist individuals in healing, empowering themselves, and advocating against gun violence and trauma that plague urban communities. Through the use of fashion, art, and music, The Apologues honors the emotions of untreated trauma through the realm of storytelling to trigger healing. We do this through the combination of self-portraits of victims and co-victims, wearable art, and musical experiences combined.
For more information and to support this initiative, visit our website, https://www.theapologues.org
