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© Jaylen Pigford

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Jaylen Pigford

Los Angeles, California

Artist Statement

Like many before me, I use skulls in my work to represent mortality and that we are all human and equal. Similar to the Renaissance painter's fascination with Memento Mori. The skull is a symbolic reminder of death's inevitability and belief that earthly possessions and achievements are fleeting. I also draw inspiration from my heritage and the cultural tradition of Dia De Los Muertos. In my paintings, I put a twist on the decorative calaveras, calacas (skulls, skeletons), and vibrant, bold, colorful motifs used to honor our ancestors. I feel that whether we accept it or not, death inspires everyone. Knowing that your time is limited encourages you to strive to reach your goals and live your best life.

© Jaylen Pigford

Jaylen Pigford's Portfolio

© Jaylen Pigford

Artist Biography

My name is Jaylen Pigford (b. 1996) I'm an Afro-Latino painter born and raised in Corpus Christi and based in Houston, Texas. I'm a self-taught artist and have been creating artwork since childhood. My paintings are autobiographical reflections on past negative experiences and adversity to tell stories of self-growth through uplifting works on canvas. I see my work as a balance of light and dark, the good with the bad, this struggle, and our failures test us, but it's what action we take to correct them that matters most.

@Jayyford96

© Jaylen Pigford

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