Ayeola Omolara Kaplan is a Black and queer, Atlanta based, Jewish, pop-surrealist painter. Through depicting the intersections of identity, class, and spirituality, she hopes to contribute to the moving canon of revolutionary art. She creates with the belief that art can be weaponized as self-defense against an anti-truth culture plagued by unhealed generational trauma.
In what ways does nature inspire or inform your work?
Nature inspired my work in that it is resilient, beautiful, chaotic, and orderly, all at once. I believe that the microcosm reflects the macrocosm and vice versa. I take my notes from the trees and follow the ways of the creatures in my backyard. Every element of the planet has something to teach us and support us. Nature inspires me as an ally in the pursuit of earth healing.
What does it mean to you to be part of a thriving ecosystem?
This whole universe is an intricate and beautiful creation, just like us. We can find so much joy and beauty in our creation as beings committed to building a harmonious and just reality. From the life blood coursing through our veins, to the rivers on the earth, to the rainbows in the sky, to the streams of stars in our galaxy, we all play a role in our collective healing.
