Baldwin Hills (2022)
Mixed media on canvas
16x20 inches
In 2017 while hiking up Machu Picchu, the artist summited the mountain at 10:09am -- another reference to 109. Sensing the serendipitous nature of this synchronous moment, the artist decided to make his descent off the mountain. The artist believed that it wasn't solely his decision, but that the spirits at Machu Picchu subtly suggested that he follow 10:09am as a sign. The story 109 has obvious religious significance as it is the testimonial of an artist's belief in Black Jesus. The mention of a James Baldwin book, Go Tell It On A Mountain, and Machu Picchu, taken together led the artist to name his work after the community in which his parents currently reside -- Baldwin Hills. The title of the work is a nod to James Baldwin and Machu Picchu.