alcohol and acrylic marker, color pencil, ink; 16×20″
“When the body cam was introduced to society, it promised truth. Yet too often it records silence, distortion, and harm. In my piece, many symbolic messages lie hidden and ready to be discovered. The artwork is to be viewed through the perspective of a police officer’s body-cam, as indicated by the date at the bottom right and the recording symbol, allowing the viewer to witness firsthand the injustice unfolding. Our eyes are covered by a hand, the officer’s, keeping us from witnessing the truth. Doves are often representative of innocence and the deceased, paying homage to all of the people who have experienced injustice and brutality at the hands of law enforcement when cameras weren’t a tool. This piece was inspired by cases like those of Rodney King and Elijah McClain. And the words “Stop Resisting” were added as a final touch to drive home the harsh reality to those who may see this piece and open their eyes to the harsh reality of these things.”
ARTIST BIO: Tate SMITH is a grade 11 student at Butler Tech School of Art studying art under art teacher Mary Catherine Ruby.