
JUSTUS: We Are Trayvon
Mixed Media
36 x 48 in
2012
My journey as an artist began with Trayvon Martin, whose tragic story reshaped my understanding of justice, race, and humanity. His untimely death was a painful reminder of the systemic injustices faced by Black youth in America. Using colorful candies—an innocent symbol tied to his story—I created a piece that represents unity, peace, and the sweetness of life that was stolen too soon.
To me, these candies symbolize diversity and the beauty of bringing together many colors to create something extraordinary. Trayvon’s tragic story, marked by the simplicity of a bag of candies, became a rallying cry for justice and unity. This piece is my mosaic of resilience and a tribute to the countless lives affected by systemic injustice. Just as these candies come together to form something greater, this art honors Trayvon’s life and the dreams of a generation fighting for a better world.
Through this piece, I wanted to remind people that every life holds value and that even the smallest actions, like the candies Trayvon carried, can become symbols of larger narratives. His story became the foundation of my work, where individual moments converge to create a collective call for justice, healing, and change.