Briana Edwards

Humans share a common desire on how we want to be recognized by others: we desire individuality. We aspire to develop an identity by maintaining originality in order to differentiate ourselves from each other. It is this notion of individuality that I strive to portray in my artwork.
My world is derived from my cultural heritage, a fusion of Filipino and African American ethnicity. As a child, I struggled with my identity, unable to distinguish myself as predominately African American or Filipino. However, this dilemma has made me realize my own sense of individuality derived from the mergence of both cultures with neither dominating. It is the foundation of balance that typifies who I am and is prevalent in my identity, which influences my work, encouraging further research.
The strength of my work relies heavily on the diversity of media incorporated.
A problem encountered was with my spray-painted series of Black Leaders; it was my first attempt experimenting with this medium. I had difficulty maintaining the separation spray-painted layers. I overcame this problem by using acrylic paint.
I was inspired to experiment with various media and techniques during my first year of IB Art. I experimented using different media and techniques through the use of carnival masks with distinct facial expressions. The technique I used to bring out those expressions ranged from the use of ink for more diversity, splashed paint on another and last incorporated spray paint.
Prior to entering the IB Diploma Programme, the extent of my experience of art was relegated to the art form of anime. This program has exposed me to an abundance of technique and different forms of art. It allowed me to cultivate my life experiences and turn my thoughts into provocative visual images for others to assess.


Self Portrait, Series
32x50
Charcoal, Watercolor


Portrait of the Unknown
50x65
Chalk Pastel


The Nightmare
50x65
Chalk Pastel


Self Portrait
38x55
Ink, Watercolor, Pencil


The Other Half
55x76
Mixed Media


Don't Remove the Roots
61x100
Watercolor, Charcoal, Ink


Inner Workings
90x100
Mixed Media Collage



Extremes
30x100
Acrylic, Fabric


Freedom
60x118
Mixed Media


Transition of Elegance part 2
30x100
Acrylic, Rose Petals, Spray Paint


Transition of Elegance
30x100
Acrylic, Spray Paint, Fabric


The Voice, The Visionary and the Dream
30x100
Spray Paint, Acrylic


Lack of Control
100x100
Plaster, Found Objects