What and who I am are more than can be observed, from across the street. I am Black, fat and of average height. My body suggests a feminine distribution of curves. Not much more than that can be determined, even when I’m close enough to touch. However, without a close shave and makeup, one may deduce that I’m transgender.
A cursory assessment of the surface details doesn't allow for a meaningful understanding of anyone, including me.
What I am is a creative, compassionate human being. If anyone chooses to “know” who I am, they must begin at the intersection of a lifetime filled with nuanced narratives and thoughtful self-reflections.
Who I am continues to be shaped, continues to evolve within the crucible of my lived experiences. Everything I’ve overheard, been told or taught, everything I’ve seen and done in response to the world around me has helped shape my core beliefs. It’s allowed me to develop a language of words and glyphs as tools. Those tools help me to navigate a life less ordinary than what was predicted for me.
Join me as I explore (through the tools at my disposal) the joys, the horrors and my “promises to keep”; yet to be realized. I hope we get to learn something about one another at the intersection of time and place that we’ve chosen to share.
Geeta Lewis
Ori Gallery Exhibition, July 2023