LHolley
“Both of these works are commentary regarding Reproductive Justice. Each narrative is about topics that still cause issue with many Americans beyond the blanket word “choose.” 1) What’s best for her physical and mental health as opposed to the quick resolve outsider’s go-to in order to rid of their assumption of a problem. 2) Particularly, a Black woman’s right to comment on her body in the context that best suits her. To lay claims to her breast and hips without outsider-talk. Insisting that her body is meant only for life and plainly sexual pleasure.”
LHolley, Little Points of She (Deep Serene), 2021. Mulberry paper, cotton rag paper, gamblin inks, pH neutral glue. 18 x 15.5 in. Courtesy of the artist. Click image to view detail.
“Many people mistake the right-side as being arabic script. If it’s similar, I’d be interested to know what it says! The print and sillouhette are reps of me -accepting my sexual identity, my feminity, and character-like features that society claims Black women have.”
LHolley, Heartbreak (RedBlue), 2011. Japanese paper, mulberry paper, gamblin inks. 14 x 11 in. Courtesy of the artist. Click image to view detail.
“This print is a literal marker of my history. When doctors – didn’t matter their race, gender, or age – wanted to do a full hysterectomy because of two large fibroids. Being 35 was the only factor in the plan to remove my entire uterus. According to them, I was beyond child-bearing and would have no use. It was all so heartbreaking, so stressful. No one wanted to give me alternatives. But I pushed back, researching at every opportunity. I finally found a doctor who not only listened but was willing. He gave me three other options… eventually I chose a partial surgery.”
LHolley (she/her): I’m an Engineer-focused turned Industrial Designer who applies a technical reference of line and vibrant colors to curate her work. Apprenticed and studied MEng for years then mid-level switched gears. No regrets! BA in VisComm from the University of San Diego, where trained in multiple art and structural techniques. My art is primarily image-only, sometimes with text, dissects negative and positive issues. Past, present, future. That enables me to regard America’s conflicts with race, gender, sexual orientation, and a slew of other biases without the burden of expected peace-making. I distort the direction of lines and where or to whom they lead. Silhouettes influence my artwork as well. A counter to derogatory imagery used as mockery. Taking control of blanket statements to strengthen my commentary. Sometimes these projects comprise unrelated pieces. Other times, the components are from one object just rearranged.
Website: https://www.yellohjoymagazine.com
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/HolleyinBlack
To purchase these works, visit the artist’s Etsy shop.