ARTIST IN RESIDENCE – Winter 2022
Pronouns: she/her
Photo by Grace Roselli, Courtesy of the artist.
“My work focuses on addressing and eliminating the negative stereotypes of blackness that still exist both inside and outside of the black community. From my perspective, this starts with erasing the European standards of beauty from blackness, while also pushing and normalizing black culture… My pieces are created to take up space and to unapologetically give their own personalities as human beings… They stand tall and proud as a representation of an unforgettable and prominent culture. This gateway of creation uplifts the idea of self love, confidence and appreciation. My work is for black people. It is created to display our innate beauty and to encourage us to be proud of who we are.”
Murjoni Merriweather is a sculptor based in Baltimore, MD. Murjoni’s work serves as mirrors for the Black community, celebrating African-American art, culture, and style. It’s also a way to see Black people in art and as art.
Graduating with a B.A. in Ceramics and Film from Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), Murjoni uses clay to press firmly against European beauty standards by creating striking, life-size sculptures based on Black people and their lived experiences. Her work addresses and eliminates stereotypes through clay portraits. With this, she enjoys centering the beauty and nuances of Black life, and normalizing what is natural about Black bodies; loving and accepting them as they come. Through the artwork, connections and reflections with herself and others based on shared experiences, Murjoni plans to continue eliminating stereotypes and prejudices while uplifting the Black community.
Follow Murjoni on Instagram: @mvrjoni
