"Taking Up Space" by Morgan Newton
"Taking Up Space" is the second installment of the Freedom of Being series. My inspiration for this painting derives from Lena Horne's "Believe In Yourself" scene in The Wiz. In order to take up space, it is necessary to believe in yourself. The larger figure in this series represents a higher self in guardian angel form. The angels in the corner also symbolize me in my second phase of growth. These versions have transformed from being flowers in the previous painting to women figures. The faceless features symbolize the process of developing into who I am meant to be. This painting is also a direct representation on my journey of stepping into my power. Creating Taking up space, inspired me to advocate for myself and be more confident. It also serves as a tool to know that whatever I seek lies within me..
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Learn more about the artist below.
Meet the Artist: Morgan Newton
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 self. 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 document 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.