I knew what I was doing, but I never really considered the magnitude of how my images were transformative to people.
Mickalene ThomasI got really excited about finding new ways of using video, and the immediacy is different, in a way, than painting and photography. The creativity comes with the editing. You can layer and cut and paste. I really love that it's like another form of making my smaller collages but in video form.
Mickalene ThomasHotels are amazing spaces and platform for activism. If they placed voting booths in hotels and other space of hospitality - a lot more people would vote. Voting poll stations aren't easily accessible. These phone booths should be in more hotels and public spaces. Activism is accessibility. Bravo to the Standard for making it possible.
Mickalene ThomasBeauty has always been an โelement of discussion for black women, whether or not we were the ones having the conversationโ. Out of necessity, black women have always had to consider others' perceptions of a certain beauty ideal, just starting with the skin color.
Mickalene ThomasI think what I have done is claimed the space and pushed it forward as much as I can in relationship to who I am and how I live my life.
Mickalene ThomasWe all have some flaws. But when I have a moment of doubt, I find inspiration from being in the moment, by letting go. I don't hold onto what I can't control. Doubt is a fleeting emotion that can destroy you if you allow it to consume your mind and spirit. Each person's time comes at variant phases, and the best you can do is enjoy what you're doing and work hard. It can't always be about you. Life is transformation - the wind blows, climate changes, birds chirp and trees burn. Where you are today is not where you will be tomorrow. The only person you can be is you.
Mickalene Thomas