The Power of Simplicity in Art: Why I Choose Black, White, and Gold

Art has always been my way of expressing the complexities of life, identity, and emotion. Over the years, I’ve explored various styles, techniques, and color palettes, but I consistently return to a simple yet profound approach—using only black, white, and 24k gold leaf. These three elements are not just colors to me; they are the foundation of my artistic voice, allowing me to communicate intricate ideas with clarity and depth.

The Symbolism of Black, White, and Gold

Black and white represent the dualities that exist within us and in the world around us. They are the yin and yang, the contrast between light and darkness, tradition and progress, peace and conflict. In my work, black and white are more than just opposites; they are complementary forces that together create balance and harmony.

For example, in my triptych Your Soul, the black and white hues are not just colors—they are metaphors for the two worlds I navigate as someone of mixed heritage, balancing the weight of cultural expectations with my own personal ambitions. The gold leaf, delicately applied, symbolizes the divinity and uniqueness that emerge from this duality. Gold, for me, is a beacon of beauty and strength. It highlights the parts of myself that I hold most sacred and reflects the resilience and power that come from embracing all aspects of my identity.

Focusing on Form and Composition

Limiting my palette to black, white, and gold allows me to focus on the fundamental aspects of art—form, composition, and contrast. Without the distraction of multiple colors, I’m free to explore the relationships between light and shadow, creating depth and dimension through the interplay of these tones.

In pieces like Weyo, the intricate, organic forms flow across the canvas, their textures brought to life through the careful application of black and white. The absence of color in Weyo highlights the purity and power of these shapes, allowing the viewer to fully engage with the movement and structure of the piece. This minimalist approach challenges me to be deliberate with every brushstroke and every line, ensuring that each element serves a purpose within the overall composition.

The Impact of Minimalism on My Work

Minimalism is often misunderstood as being simple or less complex, but in reality, it requires a heightened level of discipline and intentionality. When I work within the constraints of a limited palette, I’m forced to push the boundaries of my creativity. In Feel Me Running Away, for example, the bold, sweeping lines of black and white contrast sharply with the delicate gold leaf, creating a dynamic tension that speaks to the struggle between chaos and control.

This focus on simplicity has not only refined my technical skills but has also transformed the way I approach art. It has taught me the power of restraint and the beauty that can be found in the most basic elements. Even when I return to using color, the lessons learned from black, white, and gold remain with me, guiding my hand and shaping my vision.

A Reflection of My Personal Journey

My choice to work in black, white, and gold is deeply connected to my personal journey. As someone who has faced many challenges and navigated multiple identities, these colors resonate with me on a profound level. They represent the balance I strive to achieve in my life—the harmony between my past and my future, my struggles and my successes, my roots and my aspirations.

Through my art, I aim to share this journey with others, inviting viewers to find their own meaning in the contrast, the balance, and the beauty of simplicity. Each piece is a reflection of my ongoing exploration of identity, culture, and self-expression.

Finding Beauty in Simplicity

The true power of simplicity in art is its ability to convey profound ideas with clarity and focus. By working with black, white, and gold, I’ve been able to craft pieces that are both deeply personal and resonate on a universal level. These colors are more than just a palette—they are the language through which I express my most authentic self.

Whether you’re an artist or an admirer of art, I encourage you to explore the beauty of simplicity in your own creative journey. Sometimes, the most meaningful expression comes from stripping away the superfluous, leaving only what truly matters.