“The maternal mortality rate of Black mothers is 3-5 times higher than any other race nationwide. The medical world is not giving full agency and full humanity to Black women. So that’s where I am at right now: trying to figure out how to visually represent the issue of Black maternal health. I’ve always been good at copying from life. Now, I’m stretching myself to paint from feelings.” – @debracartwright⠀
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Debra Cartwright, is a Brooklyn-based artist known for painting the interior lives of Black women, exploring the ways that rest can be powerful rebellion. Her emerging body of work examines the heart wrenching gynecological history of America and paints an intimate portrait of Black maternal health. Read Debra’s full BodyTalk interview on the vital importance of listening. Link in bio.