Graffiti Riot
Taj Khan
Artist Statement:
My colorful paintings are made with spray paint, acrylics, paint markers, and collage in the style of abstract graffiti street art. I use graffiti as a way of expressing myself because it lets me hide my real identity like Batman. I can be a different, more creative person and put all of my emotions into my work.
“Riot” has many meanings. Someone who is funny (like me). It also means a lot of stuff all at once; action and feelings, emotions and color everywhere. Painting in this way helps express how I really feel without being told that it is “not alright” or “not ok.” I paint the pictures I see inside of my head with a lot of colors and cool designs. Painting helps me calm down my brain. As a person of color, I am not always seen as who I am by others. Making and showing my art helps make me feel accepted. Art has really helped me feel like I am seen. I feel better about myself when people appreciate my art.