Gemynii

Illustration by Sarah Yu

DJ & painter Gemynii creates empowering and uplifting portraits, which she describes as a revolutionary act of self love.

What compelled you to try painting?

I started painting back in 2010 as a way to cope with my unhealed trauma. Creating art was my way of releasing a lot of what was inside me.

How has your Durham environment supported you as an artist?

Durham has completely watered, nurtured, and helped grow the artist I have become. I am forever grateful for this community for pushing me; making ways for me; supporting me; loving me; and, most importantly, PAYING me so that I can survive while I create.

What factors are important to you in your creating process?

Energy is a big consideration when I’m painting. I like to be intentional about reflecting the light I see in my muses. 

Who inspires you?

Black femmes inspire me. Black Trans people inspire me. Black bodies. Black experience in Amerikkka inspires me. Music inspires me. 

Does your art have an objective?

The objective depends on my subject, but typically, I want people to just find their own objective while experiencing my pieces. 

Are there rules in artistry?

The rule to this artistry is to KILL your EGO and trust your own art.

Your IG avatar is Tarana Burke: can you tell us why?

I chose Tarana  because I feel like her portrait is one of the most powerful pieces in my collection. 

Are there other ways you like to creatively express yourself?

I express myself in music, fashion, modeling, cooking, photography, etc. I’m just a creative soul expressing myself constantly in everything I do.

Where can we buy your art?

I have links on my website, Gemynii, to my PAY BLACK FEMMES shirts, which are dedicated to recognizing the value of Black femme labor. People can buy my art through Pieces of a Gem, and folks can also show support by sending money to my cash app: $gemynii, or via Venmo: @gemyniii.