one of the principle ideas of the bauhaus was the concept that artists could bring about a desired social condition through the creation of a new visual environment
especially through the design of objects for daily use - so - as a visual artist I endeavor to bring about this same desired social condition by creating functional assemblages that tell tales of particular african-american historical phenomenon and create objects that illuminate both past and present events allowing the work to serve as a spiritual and intellectual reminder so that these experiences are not forgotten. in essence, my assemblages are designed to teach african-american history. my work is political and therefore vital. it requires skilled craftsmanship. by avoiding pretense, absorbing myself in the history of the visual art, music, and literature of african peoples in the americas and by demonstrating respect for both the objects and the tools required to create and combine them and, most importantly, with a little grace and the spiritual blessings of my ancestors I shall persevere, with all due respect and humility, in spite of myself. - mark broyard |