Exploring Identity and Resilience: Latisha Coleman’s Artistic Journey
Latisha Coleman’s latest exhibition offers a deeply personal and introspective look into the evolution of her identity as both an artist and an individual. A 3-dimensional artist and freelance graphic designer based in Winston-Salem, Latisha has spent the past seven years rediscovering her artistic passion and embracing the creative freedom to express herself.
This exhibition is a powerful exploration of self and community, capturing the different versions of Latisha throughout her career and life. Her work reflects not only her personal growth but also the influence of those closest to her—family and loved ones who have shaped her identity. “My art reflects myself and the most influential people in my life—powerful individuals who have sacrificed, provided, and instilled the importance of God and family,” Latisha shares.
Latisha’s pieces in this collection are deeply influenced by African and African American culture, blending sculpture with canvas art to create 3-dimensional portraits that honor the truths, strengths, and resilience of Black men and women. These works are not just representations of individuals, but invitations for viewers to see themselves within the art. By portraying different stages of her own journey and the experiences of those closest to her, Latisha creates art that resonates universally, particularly within the Black community.
Through a rich combination of mixed media—including hair extensions, molding, printed fabrics, hair jewelry, scrap paper, and florals—Latisha infuses her sculptures with texture, contrast, and depth. Each piece carries a sense of individuality, yet also speaks to a shared sense of unity, beauty, and strength. The materials used in her works tell a story of personal and collective resilience, while the 3-dimensional presence of the figures reflects their individuality and strength.
Latisha’s aspiration is simple yet profound: “I hope my art imparts a sense of solitude and celebration for all people of color.” Through these powerful visual narratives, Latisha not only explores her own identity but also invites others to reflect on their own, creating a space where people can see their beauty, strength, and complexity reflected back at them.
In this exhibition, Latisha Coleman transcends the personal to create art that resonates on a deeply universal level. It’s a celebration of self, family, and community, inviting all who experience it to see their own truth in the works she has so thoughtfully crafted.
YMCA Tour: Empowering Youth Through Art
Recently, a group of enthusiastic kids from the YMCA visited the Latisha Coleman exhibition at the DAC, where they had the chance to explore the artwork and learn about the creative process behind it. As part of the experience, they participated in a hands-on activity where they made Affirmation Flags, each designed to reflect positive messages of self-love and empowerment.
For many of the young visitors, it was an inspiring experience to see art that reflected their own features and cultural identity. A highlight for the little girls, in particular, was seeing the intricately braided hair featured in Tish’s sculptures—an element that resonated deeply with them. “It was so cool for them to see themselves in the art,” one of the staff members shared. The tour was not just an opportunity to appreciate art but to see how powerful representation can be in sparking creativity and affirming self-worth.
Story Time with Denise
As part of the exhibition, a group of children from the community enjoyed a special Story Time with Denise Hartsfield, DAC Board Chair. Denise shared a story that connected with the themes of strength and identity in Latisha’s work, offering a meaningful way for the kids to engage with the art and see themselves reflected in the exhibition.
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