We will regularly be presenting a featured artist, writer or performer who is exploring questions of identity and personal narrative through their medium of expression.

The map is your representation. No rigid lines, no defined routes. You direct it on your own account.

Grandmas Love - "This image was actually a commission from a friend of mine who is an amazing Jazz Musician, Robin Barker. He commissioned this painting for me for his album cover which is actually for the Stephan Lewis foundation. Grandmas Love just represents Grandmas all over the world who fight for their children and grandchildren. It's an unconditional love they have for their children."

She's Infinite - "This painting just means that the spirit is more powerful than the physical. Usually, in a lot of cultures humming birds or birds are ancestors from far who come to bring us a message."

Artist: Suritah Teresa Wignall

Description:
Emerging African Canadian artist Suritah Teresa Wignall is a passionate communicator; Suritah’s paintings are filled with confidence, colour and light. She is currently focusing on portraits that honor and express her African roots: “I am truly inspired by the African form, our beautiful features, succulent soul food and the rich complexions that coat our skin… I want to reflect back to my people a sense of their own inner beauty”.

Her talent as a visual artist was recognized at an early age and nurtured by several mentors and teachers. In 1998 she connected with a group of dynamic young Canadians of diverse cultural backgrounds who were devoted to the exploration of both self and social identity through art. Beginning to place herself within a broader cultural context, the inspiration for her art making began to center around a commitment to her African heritage and the portrayal of her people with positivity, beauty and strength.

Suritah’s accomplishments include both solo and group exhibitions in Canada and the United States. Her portraits were chosen for the sets of the TV pilot of Trey Anthony’s DA KINK IN MY HAIR, Ryerson University, YMCA and have the graced the dressing rooms of Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Maxwell, Floetry, Goapelle, Femi Kuti and Alicia Keys.

In expressing her vision of African Canadian Identity and consciousness Suritah is taking her place in Canadian culture as an artist of beauty and power.

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Check out more of Suritah’s work at: http://www.sweetlikemangoe.com/