HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN POWER OBJECTS with Demetri Broxton

I felt an immediate resonance when Demetri’s work first popped up on my screen. Here were these meticulous, vibrant prints of vintage photographs of ancestors, bedazzled in sequins and beads and quartz crystals. So we struck up a chat and over the last few months have really nurtured a budding friendship. It was over the course of my conversations with Demetri that I knew it was the right time to bring SEAMSIDE back.

In this SEAMSIDE conversation, Demetri and I explore:
① how our identities can shift and expand over time
② why we need power objects like boxing gloves now more than ever
③ why he covers the eyes of his ancestors in his most recent work

WHY LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE?

In this conversation, Braxton reveals how personal identity shapes artistic practice, discussing his evolution from painting to creating intricate beaded boxing gloves and textile works that honor ancestors. His work navigates complex histories while seeking paths toward healing and understanding, offering valuable insights into how artists can address difficult histories while maintaining hope for the future.

REFLECTION PROMPT

How do you navigate complex or difficult aspects of your family's history while maintaining connection to your past, your upbringing, and your ancestors?

THREE ARTISTS YOU SHOULD FOLLOW

① John Paul Morabito: Creates elaborate beaded tapestries exploring gender identity and LGBTQ rights
② April Bey: Known for monumental tapestries placing Caribbean history in futuristic landscapes
③ Braxton Garneau: Painter incorporating textiles into figurative work

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