Ariel Collins
Ariel Collins’ artistic journey is deeply rooted in personal experience, cultural exploration, and social activism. Growing up in an environment that valued art, literature, and travel, she was exposed to diverse artistic styles and historical narratives from a young age. Her parents fostered this passion by taking her to museums across the country and abroad, immersing her in a rich array of artistic and literary traditions. This early exposure laid the foundation for her creative pursuits, providing her with a broad understanding of storytelling through different mediums.
Although there was no single defining moment that drew her to art, creativity has always been a natural part of her identity. Her formal education, particularly in a setting different from her home in Southeast Florida, heightened her awareness of race and identity, prompting her to shift her artistic focus. Through research-driven storytelling and visual narratives, she began blending history, activism, and self-expression into her work.
Collins’ artistic practice is characterized by experimentation and multidisciplinary exploration. She constantly challenges herself, using a variety of genres, styles, and mediums to communicate complex themes. Her work is motivated by nuanced activism, cultural heritage, and the emotional depth of identity. Recurring themes such as racial inequity, identity, and Black heritage reflect her commitment to addressing systemic oppression and the resilience of marginalized communities. She employs texture, layering, and repurposed materials to symbolize hidden histories, generational trauma, and self-reclamation.
The influence of artists like Kara Walker, Beverly McIver, and Betye Saar is evident in Collins’ work. Inspired by Saar’s use of unconventional materials, McIver’s expressive portraiture, and Walker’s examination of power dynamics, Collins bridges the personal and the political in her art. Her process is methodical yet intuitive—she begins by organizing her studio, reviewing research and notes, and sketching compositions before diving into creation. Positive self-talk and an intentional workspace set the tone for her artistic flow.
Her environment plays a crucial role in inspiring her work. For instance, her piece A Seat at the Table captures the significance of beauty supply stores in Black communities, portraying them as more than just retail spaces but as cultural and social hubs. Similarly, Bagged and Bound, one of her most challenging yet rewarding works, incorporates paper bags to critique the historical paper bag test, using abstraction and sound to deepen its impact.
Collins sees art as a tool for dialogue, advocacy, and personal growth. Her work aims to foster awareness and reflection on the complexities of race, identity, and social justice. The most fulfilling aspect of her journey has been witnessing how her work resonates with others, sparking conversations and challenging narratives. Success, for her, is not just about recognition but about the authenticity and impact of her work.
Looking ahead, Collins aspires to expand her artistic reach, deepen her engagement with historical and cultural narratives, and explore immersive installations that invite audience participation. She stays true to her creative vision by grounding herself in her values and purpose, ensuring that her work remains authentic rather than reactive to trends.
Her personal experiences, particularly as a Black queer woman navigating racial and gendered spaces, significantly shape her work. One formative moment occurred during an Art History class in college, where she and a fellow Black student were made to feel alienated in a predominantly non-Black space. This experience reinforced her determination to assert her voice and create art that affirms Black intellect, history, and identity.
Collins balances her creative practice with teaching, mentorship, and self-care, recognizing that well-being is essential to sustaining her work. She finds inspiration in preserving her inner child—exploring botanical gardens, visiting museums, playing video games, and engaging in conversations that challenge her perspectives.
For aspiring artists, she advises staying true to their voice, embracing experimentation, and trusting the process. Surrounding oneself with a supportive community and continuing to learn are essential elements of growth.
In the future, Collins looks forward to collaborating with writers, musicians, and filmmakers to expand the storytelling potential of her work. She is currently developing a mixed-media installation exploring resilience and reclamation within Black communities, incorporating historical narratives with contemporary techniques. She is also interested in interactive installations that invite deeper engagement with the themes of identity, race, and social justice.
Her message to readers is a reminder of the power of art to challenge, heal, and transform. Art is not just about aesthetics—it is a means of provoking thought, deepening understanding, and creating change. By pushing boundaries and embracing their unique perspectives, artists have the ability to make a lasting impact.
