A Family Tree...Legacy

A Family Tree... Legacy" 

 

was created from John's early experiences with family structure. Being in foster care and adoption, growing up in communities of the 80's where he was able to see traditional family structures. At the age of 11, John understood the impact of men and the example fathers  had on his life. He vowed to be present for his children to ensure they had an engaged father. 

 

While the image of Man, Woman, and Child is depicted,  his own upbringing  was not that. It represented the many examples of youth and families across the country. Raised by a single mother and older siblings (women) and a community of men and women who cared enough to be present for her and us. It didn’t change the image, it evolved the meaning. 

 

This piece, for John still represents 11 year old Johns desire to lead and be present for his family. However it also includes community and all the ways we see family represented today. The leaves behind the family represent the past, generational cycles and the opportunities of the past. The leaves in front of the family represent the future, it represent being able to break cycles of the past and having a bright and fruitful future and legacy. How ever you see family,  this artwork represents your village, your community, your tribe, your family structure.