Maya Dixon

ABOUT ARTIST

Maya works and lives in Bronx, NY and graduated from Cooper Union with a B.F.A. degree in 2022. 

Enslaved individuals used to be representations of wealth since they were considered to be capital. This series utilizes the nation's currency as a medium to critique the very fabric on which America was constructed. Printed on a paper like material, United States currency consists of 75 percent cotton and 25 percent linen. The connection cotton, labor, and capitalism share within the context of American history is undeniable.

This series portrays black figures within America engaged in various situations. Iconography associated with the United States military is used in order to emphasize how patriotism is about sacrifice, bravery and fighting for one's nation. What gets labeled as patriotism or as terrorism, is often based on one's political beliefs. The idea of patriotism has been subverted, turning those who demand liberty, equality and justice, into terrorists.   

The act of rendering currency unusable by removing its value, forces us to reckon with its symbolism. In this series this action is used as a form of protest. The law states that the penalty for mutilation of bank notes can include up to six months imprisonment and a fine. This disregard of the law, pushes us to acknowledge the crimes committed in order for our currency, the dollar, to maintain its power.