Terry Mitchell

Race Wars in my DNA

I am healing the trauma of RACE WARS in my DNA.

Spring semester 2013, I was asked to create paintings without using any black or white to mix the colors for paint.

I couldn’t help but think, “What would my life be like without black or white’s influence?” I often feel that I walk between the space of race.

I thought of all the races that are part of my DNA. I come from a long line of open-minded lovers, maybe some weren’t given a choice. Many ancestors were on opposite sides of race wars; French, Mexican, German, African American, Native American, Middle Eastern, English, Irish, Scottish, slaves & slave owners.

I thought of the imprint of pain & misunderstanding because of the black & white mentality that cripples my heart when I feel like I don’t fit in.

I wondered if I could heal my ancestor’s pain within me.

I visualized them all, speaking of their lives & their journeys. I wanted to hear them all. I wanted to heal them all. I saw them making peace with each other in another realm where no black or white was allowed, just the pure colors of their essence. They were my inspiration for these paintings.

I see them all dancing within me.

I see them in the face my grandchildren.

Changing the world begins within…. outside of black & white.