Sanah Brown-Bowers

Region: MFA Annual

Website: http://www.sanahbrownbowers.com

City / State: Baltimore, MD

 Sparked in high school by the photography of Gordon Parks, my art is driven by a lifelong passion for portraiture and realism. Over the past 25 years, I have fused photography and painting to create portraits that incorporate color, pattern, and fabric as integral elements.

Family is at the heart of my work, blending my personal experiences with a whimsical, maximalist approach. My art celebrates everyday family moments, reflecting universal stories that connect us all. I combine realism with fantastical elements such as cartoons, graphic text, and memories, inviting viewers to engage with their own experiences.

Through mixed-media, collage, film, and sound, I craft family altars as sanctuaries for reflection. These pieces honor ancestors and offer viewers a connection with their personal stories. My work challenges traditional portrayals of people of color, focusing on Black joy, empowerment, and unity, rather than trauma. My goal is to uplift and inspire, offering hope, healing, and connection through vibrant, dynamic artwork.