Artist statement

My foremost goal at the outset of this project was to collaborate with Dawi to create a faithful and honest rendition of his story -- to investigate his journey as an artist and his ambition to leave a legacy behind for his children. Immediately upon meeting him, I was fascinated by Dawi's story: an outsider artist in his 70s who sells his art and poetry at the Maxwell Street market, who has yet to reach a large audience, and still strives to have his voice heard and understood.

As we began working together, it became clear to me that a big part of this story was Dawi's journey of overcoming addiction. It is one of the major themes within his body of work, and one of the aspects of his story with which I had a small glimpse of personal connection and understanding. This extended teaser merely hints at the concept of overcoming addiction, but this is a point I intend to explore in depth as the two of us continue to collaborate.

Another point of this story that I had personal connection with was that of an artist who holds on to dreams of attaining major success and acceptance. This piece is intended for those who find inspiration in the story of a man who, after 50 years of practicing his craft, remains resolute in his journey to gain recognition as an artist.