Everything Royal

2025
Mixed Media, Acrylic on cardboard 41 × 49 in

Everything Royal explores the idea that worth, dignity, and belonging are not things we have to earn—they are already ours. A young Black boy sits beside his loyal companion wearing a simple handmade crown, transforming childhood play into a quiet declaration of self-worth. There is nothing extravagant about his royalty; it comes from confidence, imagination, love, and the feeling of being completely valued. The dog adds a sense of loyalty and unconditional friendship, while the peppers and subtle Haitian references connect the child’s world to heritage and identity. Everything Royal reminds us that a crown doesn’t make the child important—the child gives meaning to the crown.