"UNDRAFTED" Exhibition Statement:
Janel "JY Originals" Young is a Community Artist on a mission to inspire through creativity and play. Janel is also known for utilizing visual arts as a communication tool to connect people to equity and justice initiatives. As a resident, leader, teammate, advocate, daughter, friend, and artist, she takes pride in being rooted deeply in the communities she lives and serves.
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Elements of geometric shapes and bold colors can be found throughout Janel's art in impactful and intentional compositions. Using colors and shapes as symbolism is a common theme to convey the juxtaposition between harsh realities and optimal human connection, especially for large-scale mural projects. Through her process, Young finds a way to celebrate and preserve communities’ histories while simultaneously paving a way forward toward dreamlike opportunities.
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Janel thinks of her geometric-heavy pieces as a way to challenge the viewer to engage with the piece, or, alternatively, to enjoy its simplicity in a way that feels approachable and offers a sense of ease, hope and especially joy. Creativity is a tool to transform ordinary spaces into places for deeper connection. Her style creates space, even if just for a moment, to decompress, unravel and heal. Janel also actively creates with the hope to provoke dialogue that inspires change, joy and has a meaningful impact where it is needed most.