Artist Statement

Mentis Carcerem (mental prison), embodies not only the sentiment of those who have been mentally affected by incarceration, but those dear to me who have undergone such inhuman treatment. Similar to the conditions and rooms they’re forced to sit in, this piece represents the long-term effects of confinement, and the emotional separation that causes a discombobulated dream-like environment.

Biography

Based out of Columbus, Ohio, Alek Shabazz‘s work embodies not only her personal trials and tribulations, but also the challenges the Black community faces on a day-to-day basis. By diving into the exploration of 2-D shapes and elements, she seeks to create new solutions for abstraction. Her pieces are often inspired by a specific event, emotion or personal encounter, which she translates onto canvas. These concepts then undergo a process of construction and destruction until an impactful impression is left behind. Alek believes that without the individual there is no “one” — similar to a puzzle — so while each detail holds its own importance, the key is that it corresponds with other pieces without overpowering or becoming undermined. Follow her on Instagram @heyaslur.