Sloan Mitchell - Creating original artworks: Watercolor Self-Portrait (5 points)

 

Est. 2007 - Original artwork by Sloan Mitchell

       One of my recent artworks is a self-portrait inspired by Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride.  I have loved Burton’s work since childhood, watching Frankenweenie and The Nightmare Before Christmas.  However, he believes Black people do not “fit” into his aesthetic.  In 2016, when asked about the lack of diversity in his films, he stated, “Things either call for things, or they don’t.” I wanted to prove that Black people could fit into Burton’s gloomy aesthetic. 

        It was important to me to show that Black people are allowed to be flawed, but most of all, we deserve to be spooky too. 

    With that mindset, I began drafting my portrait.  I knew I wanted to use watercolor, but I wanted to experiment with a new medium.  I started working with ink and sketched various portraits, which allowed me to practice and finalize what I wanted for my final piece.  I wanted my self-portrait to align with the Tim Burton aesthetic, even if it meant slightly altering my appearance.  I incorporated the four main archetypes: a long neck, big eyes, bold features, and dark colors.  This approach helped maintain the aesthetic while demonstrating that Black people could be a part of Tim Burton’s vision.  It was crucial to me to also stay true to my natural features: my curly hair, cupid’s bow, beauty marks, and nose. 

 As an artist, I utilize my work to challenge the norms and amplify the voices of those who are underrepresented.  Even though my work isn’t posted in a public space, it is still a form of activism.  I create imagery that pushes for greater representation and challenges the idea that certain aesthetics “aren’t for us.” Whether through illustration, painting, or storytelling, I strive to make people feel seen and valued.  Representation matters, and through my art, I strive to demonstrate this.