POWERSHIELD #11

mixed media

18 x 24 inches

Courtesy of The Artist

Guest Curated by Sarah Irvin

Franchell Mack Brown is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Richmond. She is a VMFA Fellow (2021-22). Her works are in the Capital One Collection. She's a cohort of Interlude Residency in Hudson, NY (2022), Monson Arts Residency, Monson ME (2023), and The Visual Arts Center of Richmond, Richmond, VA (2023-24). Mack Brown teaches creative workshops for CultureWorks and helps facilitate The Make Space mentor program for 6th grade girls. She is the Professional Artist Development Co-Ordinator for VisArts' 6-month residency program.

"My themes focus on the spiritual practice of raising one's vibration to find peace in, what can be, a tumultuous life. As a Black American Mother, witnessing trauma, micro aggression, and social injustice are daily occurrences. Whether in person, through social media feeds, newscasts, or entertainment narratives. Misogyny, sexism, racism, and ageism are the fabric of this country. As such, I have learned to weave my own antidote by finding and creating joy and peace in my existence, regardless of the circumstances. The practice of healing leads me to lean on angels, ancestors, guides, and vanguards. These entities guide me in quilting healing armor. These are the stories I am interested in telling."