I build my art-making process by allowing myself to view the world that I live in critically and as a malleable aesthetic experience.  At an early age I developed a very strong sense of self and culture from work that surrounded me in my home, which referenced the African American experience. These images undoubtedly embedded itself in my personhood, thus encouraging me to embrace an Afrocentric perspective on identity, world-views, morality, and aesthetics. As a result, I’ve chosen to focus on the African American figure as my subject.—Imani Shanklin Roberts

Artist Imani Shanklin Roberts is based in New York City where she earned a BFA/MS in Art Education from Pratt Institute. She is an admissions officer at Pratt, an art educator and describes herself as an "artist and enthused educator who peels apart topics on race, gender, and identity." She has exhibited widely including a 2019 show influenced by becoming a mother titled "I AM SHE" at the Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn. Earlier this year she was one of ten artists selected to lead community-based murals as part of the New York Health and Hospitals Arts and Medicine Community Mural Project.
 

What themes do you pursue in your work and why?

To create imagery uplifting and celebrating the black experience. Most intimately the experience and bodies of black Women. Restoring and reinforcing power, effortless beauty, style and grace through oil on canvas.

How does your work comment on current social or political issues? 

Being African American there are constant portrayals of us that are misrepresented, cautionary or oppressive. The lack of representation of us in the art world and in esteemed media fueled me to create competitive imagery. Imagery that shows the truth of our being. Images that showcase the complexities of our resilience, the majesty of our glory and magnificence of our simplicity.

Who are your biggest influences? 

I really am enamored by anyone living in their holistic power. Constantly influenced by anyone sharing their vulnerabilities openly and looking to lift the frequency of humanity. Artists that inspire me are Michalene Thomas, Kehinde Wiley, Barkely Hendricks, Faith Ringold and a host of others.

How important are libraries to you as an artist?

Having access to a catalog of work and information is integral to growth and creation. Libraries are heavenly databases of knowledge and history. The dynamic voices and perspectives I’ve been able to access through NYPL's books, images, and catalogs has strengthened the concepts I explore in my work. 

Why art?

Being an artist is a byproduct of my desire to communicate more expansively. Creating has been a part of my own therapy and problem solving. Maintaining consistency in outputting work has led to more opportunities and more eyes on my work. Creating is my livelihood so as I develop my work will reflect that and grow with me.

How do you seek out opportunities?

I’ve been blessed to be sought after and haven’t ever formally been in an aggressive path of applying or seeking opportunities. I also have an incredible support network that sends me opportunities and drops my name whenever “artistry” is needed. It’s been divine order in a lot of ways. I have a growing interest in participating in the artistic conversations happening all over the world more actively. 

Have the recent events had an impact on your art practice?

I've had to pivot like many businesses and entrepreneurs during this unprecedented time. It’s forced me to create in different ways and present my work in safe/divergent ways. It’s honestly been a really transformative and reflective time. I’ve grown immensely and I look forward to sharing more of my self discovery and exploration publicly. 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? 

Be guided by passion, pleasure and purpose.