Morgan Newton is a visual artist and Howard Alumna from Houston, Texas.

“Growing up as a black woman in the South, I’ve found it difficult to be self-assured. Over the years, I found myself performing for others instead of embracing my authentic self. Through art, I give myself permission to share pieces of who I am on canvas. This practice has allowed me to encourage growth, rather than fear it.”

I document this growth within each work by portraying vulnerability through creation. I express that vulnerability through figures that represent me. As someone who has struggled with her mental health, I find this self-expression helpful. The recurring themes in my work are self-love, self-actualization, and growth. I utilize these themes as a way of healing spiritually and emotionally.

“My current subjects consist of black women in various atmospheres coming into their own authentic selves. Each work is an ode to me accepting the multiple versions of myself. To be an artist, I feel that it is imperative that one must be honest with themselves first and then others. Each of my paintings also documents my journey as a black woman, and who I am meant to be. I do this to fully step into my power and show up as my authentic self, not only on canvas but in person.”

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