Project Description

A Modern Belonging is a depiction of where the natural world and the Heart of Kansas City converge. This piece is an adaptation of my original oil painting on canvas, I Come in Peace. Above the trees, you can see the daily Kansas City life unfolding. In this way, Kansas Citians become collaborators and subjects within the art. My intention is to show two environments coexisting harmoniously. A man is pictured with his eyes closed in a moment of introspection. He is taking in all of the sounds and smells around him. Feeling the breeze across his face. This piece serves as a reminder that the peaceful refuge you are seeking; that familiar feeling of home, can always be found within you. We can bring this feeling with us wherever we go. The man is standing amongst trees; a place where he feels rooted. Holding flowers represents his nurturing presence in both natural and urban sanctuaries. It brings attention to our need to take care of this home we share with all forms of life. This is a portrayal of harmony between humanity and nature; creating a sense of being protected and secure, which are core components of home.

Medium

Oil on canvas

Location

Kauffman Southbound KC Streetcar Shelter

Bio

Taylar Sanders is a visual artist, painter and muralist from Kansas City, Missouri. Her art journey began at a critical moment. After a lifetime of suppressing her emotions, she developed an autoimmune disease. She was losing her voice figuratively and literally. At the intersection of prayer, a search for healing and self reflection; she was led to painting. It became a method of emotional regulation and a way to reclaim her voice. She has been exploring her creative expression for 9 years. Much of her work consists of powerful and moving figurative paintings that depict the complexity of black identity and emotion. She primarily works with oil paint on canvas, wood and glass. She also creates digital art, murals and public art installations. She explores inner emotional worlds and the full spectrum of emotions. She challenges narratives about black culture and the expression of femininity and masculinity within it. She highlights peace, joy, gentleness and our interconnection with each other and nature. Her work aims to uplift and create harmony among people through the common thread of emotion. She is currently a studio resident at the Charlotte Street Foundation. Her work has been exhibited in various galleries and collected internationally.

Website | taylarsanders.com

Instagram | @taylarstake