We Matter: Celebrating Black Identity and Strength Through Art
- Lissia D Fraser
- Apr 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 7
Introduction to We Matter
"We Matter" (or "We Are Many") is a powerful artwork born from the desire to create a piece that unapologetically symbolizes Black beauty, Black strength, and Black power. It serves as a tribute to the richness of the Black diaspora worldwide—a vibrant tapestry of colours, cultures, and untapped talents that are often underappreciated. As a black Artist living in the UK, I have witnessed the struggle of finding one's voice in a society that often insists on fitting into predefined categories, even when those categories don’t truly reflect who we are. "We Matter" is a celebration of Black identity—both individually and collectively. It carries a strong message that echoes:
Our bodies matter
Our voices matter
Our dreams matter
Our lives matter
Never forget,
you matter
The Vision Behind We Matter
As a Black woman, I've often felt the need to seek permission to create work that celebrates Black consciousness. In today’s socially sensitive world, there is a constant fear of being labelled as non-inclusive, as if recognizing and celebrating one's own heritage might somehow exclude others. However, inclusivity, to me, also means the freedom to acknowledge and honour our own culture without feeling obligated to dilute it in homage to every other culture. "We Matter" is a visual affirmation that Black voices, cultures, and contributions deserve to be celebrated unapologetically.
Creative Process
The journey to creating "We Matter" began with a few rough sketches and random scribbling—a creative process I often use when I’m unsure of how I want something to look. My initial idea was to design a futuristic head, perhaps using African textiles as inspiration. However, I quickly realized I didn’t want to create an image that simply echoed traditional African cloth patterns. Instead, I wanted something that symbolized both heritage and progress.
I turned to Blender, a powerful 3D software often used in the gaming industry for creating environments and characters. I challenged myself to freestyle model a human African male head. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally arrived at a design that felt right. I then transferred the 3D image of my model to Photoshop, where I could refine it further. I experimented with various textures, lighting effects, and filters. The mesh version of the 3D model stood out, offering a futuristic aesthetic that I liked and decided to use.
In the end, I chose a sepia tone for the final colour palette—its simplicity and intensity captured the emotional essence of the piece, without the need for excessive colour. This resulted in two variations: We Matter 1 and We Matter 2. Both works can be enjoyed together or separately, each carrying its own significance. Recently, I added a female version to the series, which will soon be available for purchase on the website and will make its debut at the Brixton Art fair on the 5th and 6th July.
We Matter: A Universal Message of Empowerment
In a world still plagued by racism, We Matter serves as a powerful reminder to the global Black diaspora: "You matter," regardless of whether society acknowledges it. Black voices are often overlooked, and our contributions are too frequently dismissed. In today's world, which sometimes prioritizes "woke ism" over authentic dialogue, it’s crucial to remember the inherent worth and power of our existence.
We Matter is more than just a work of art it’s a statement of strength and resilience. It celebrates the diversity within the Black community, acknowledging that while we are many, we are also unique. Our stories, cultures, and talents contribute to the broader world in invaluable ways.
This artwork has strong aesthetic qualities but also carries a universal message of empowerment.
Conclusion: Why "We Matter" Matters
In conclusion, We Matter is an artwork of both celebration and affirmation. It’s a visual embodiment of Black strength, beauty, and power that encourages everyone, especially within the Black community, to embrace who they are unapologetically. As much as we exist in a world that sometimes tries to erase our voices, this piece reminds us all that we matter—both as individuals and as part of a collective Black community.
With its compelling aesthetic and universal message, We Matter continues to stand as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and power of Black people everywhere.
Whether you're drawn to it for its artistic beauty or its deeper cultural significance, We Matter is a reminder to never forget: you matter.
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