Short Bio
Vaniza Pierre aka "LIL' PICASSO" is a 17-year-old self-taught, multi-faceted artist based in New Jersey. Pierre works primarily in the mediums of acrylic, oil, and pencil. She also utilizes her time making short films, writing poetry, writing short stories and working on graphic design. All it took was a question of purpose and pure boredom at eight years old on a Sunday afternoon to start her creative journey. She aims to fuse her faith, heritage, life experiences, and nostalgic influences from film and television to execute great works of art to tell stories and have those difficult conversations. She doesn't believe in having a specific niche and constantly explores different ways of creating things. Her mission is to influence a future generation of aspiring artists who want to shake things up and make the world more interesting.
Statement
As an artist, I am driven by a profound commitment to amplifying the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, particularly within the Black diaspora. Through my work, I endeavor to dismantle stereotypes and challenge societal perceptions, striving to reveal the inherent humanity and depth within Black individuals.
Central to my artistic practice is the exploration of mental health, a subject often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. By employing a visual language that transcends words, I seek to provide a platform for dialogue and introspection, inviting viewers to confront their own preconceptions and biases surrounding mental wellness. Through poignant imagery and evocative symbolism, I aim to illuminate the complex intersections of race, identity, and mental health, fostering empathy and understanding in the process.
Moreover, my work is deeply rooted in the power of nostalgia, offering glimpses into shared memories and collective experiences. Drawing inspiration from personal recollections and cultural touchstones, I endeavor to evoke a sense of longing and reflection, inviting viewers to journey through their own nostalgia-tinged landscapes. By tapping into the universal emotions of joy, longing, and belonging, I aim to forge connections that transcend boundaries of race, age, and background.
Biography
Vaniza De Pierre is an artist whose creative endeavors transcend boundaries, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of the human experience. With a passionate commitment to social justice and a profound belief in the transformative power of art, Pierre endeavors to shed light on the humanity of Black people, while also offering poignant reflections on mental health and nostalgic experiences. Born and raised in a diverse community steeped in rich cultural traditions, Vaniza draws inspiration from her own heritage and life experiences. From an early age, she was captivated by the power of visual storytelling, recognizing its potential to provoke dialogue, challenge perceptions, and foster empathy. Fuelled by a desire to effect change and ignite meaningful conversations, Pierre embarked on a journey of artistic exploration that would ultimately shape her unique voice and vision.
Central to Vaniza's practice is a deep-seated commitment to amplifying the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, particularly within the Black community. Through her evocative and meticulously crafted artworks, Pierre seeks to dismantle stereotypes and confront societal issues, offering viewers a glimpse into the richness and diversity of Black identity. With a keen eye for detail and a masterful command of color and composition, Vaniza invites audiences to see beyond surface-level narratives, encouraging them to confront their own biases and preconceptions.In addition to her exploration of racial identity, Vaniza also delves into the realm of mental health, offering a visual language to articulate the often unspoken struggles and triumphs of the human psyche. Drawing upon personal experiences and insights, Vaniza creates works that resonate on a deeply emotional level, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of mental wellness with compassion and understanding.
Resume / CV
