DVAA Member since 2023

Akira Gordon

About:

Akira Gordon, a Philadelphia-born painter and recent graduate of the University of the Arts, is a captivating artist driven by a passion for contemporary art and self-portraiture. Inspired by Kerry James Marshall and Sasha Gordon, she skillfully integrates her black experiences into her work, placing figures within evocative environments. In her current artistic endeavors, Akira Gordon delves deep into the realm of narrative storytelling, employing her figures as conduits to convey compelling tales. Her unique artistic voice is amplified by a rich and saturated color palette, imbuing her paintings with a mesmerizing vibrancy that captivates viewers and invites them into her narrative world. With accolades such as the Distinguished Artist Award and exhibitions at renowned venues like Icebox Project Space and Rittenhouse Fine Art Show, she aims to attend global residencies and achieve gallery representation, leaving a lasting impression on the art world.

Artist Statement:

In my artistic journey, I continually evolve my passion for creating meaningful paintings that embody the essence of being a Black femme woman. I'm driven not only to bridge the representation gap but also to infuse my art with an authentic, relatable spirit. Inspired by classical masterworks, I aim to transcend their boundaries by translating the vibrant stories of my community onto canvas. These narratives are woven with our unique complexities, emotions, and experiences, often overshadowed or misrepresented. My art possesses the power to reshape perceptions and challenge conventional narratives. As I delve deeper into this realm, I prioritize amplifying the voices of Black individuals, particularly Black women, in my paintings. I portray moments of introspection, joy, vulnerability, and strength, celebrating the ordinary and the mundane. My work is a tribute to life's intricate details and the stories they hold. A distinctive aspect of my process is using self-portraiture as a reference. Through this, I establish a direct connection between the canvas and my inner world, infusing authenticity that resonates with viewers. Each brushstroke carries a piece of my soul, merging reality and imagination. Despite drawing from my life experiences, I remain eager for more. Life, to me, is a canvas awaiting new adventures, cultures, and perspectives. I yearn for diverse experiences that will enrich my art with a broader range of emotions and stories, from travel to conversations and embracing the unknown. My artistic journey is a continuous quest for growth and evolution. I am steadfast in my commitment to creating art that resonates, challenges, and uplifts. Through ongoing self-discovery, exploration, and immersion in the world around me, I'm confident that my art will mirror the intricate tapestry of existence, reflecting not just who I am, but the vast potential within life's canvas to inspire art that moves hearts and minds limitlessly.

SOcial Media:

Tiktok: @okayakiii

IG: @okayakiii