Under the Influence -- Aliyah Valcin

Lorna Simpson is most famous for her photography work but for this project, I decided to focus on her handmade collage work. Her collages center on black women, making them the focal point of her artistic expression. She incorporates vintage imagery in either black and white or sienna tones for her collage work. After constructing her collages, she places the composites on a solid background that resembles worn paper. For my interpretation of her work, I included these same elements in addition to adding elements that connect to African American culture in some way. To find this imagery I researched to find imagery from various databases to add a historical touch to each composition. Each image focuses on some element that ties back to African American history and is designed differently. Since some of my images are original photos, I manipulated the photos to give them an older feel by adding a sienna tone overlay. 

Movement for Equality

Inner Balance

Find the Beauty

                                                                            Golden Hair

In the News

Chained to Hip-Hop

Inner Peace

Music for the Soul