Dreaming in the Dark and Beyond an exhibit by Jamarr Cox

My art is a visual reflection of my life, shaped by the world and environment that have influenced me. Through my work, I explore memory, identity, and personal experience, creating compositions that serve as both self-portraiture and storytelling. Each piece I create is a multi-faceted narrative, featuring a central figure dressed in modern, trendy clothing, surrounded by an array of toys, video games, and pop culture artifacts from both past and present. These scattered objects are more than just nostalgic references, they are symbolic of my journey with ADHD—both as a child and as an adult - illustrating the often chaotic, yet deeply meaningful, way my mind processes the world.

The placement of these items across the canvas is intentional. Their seemingly random arrangement mirrors the challenges of ADHD—thoughts that jump from one idea to the next, the struggle to focus amidst distractions, and the battle to bring structure to a mind that thrives in movement. Yet, within this visual disarray, it also indicates that ADHD doesn't have to define or limit a person. I want my work to resonate with others who have ADHD, offering them reassurance that they are not alone. It is possible to navigate the challenges, embrace their uniqueness, and still create something meaningful.

Beyond personal expression, my work also seeks to present a fresh perspective on the past and present of Louisville, KY. My art contains old, new, and historical landmarks, as well as corporations that not only serve as cultural markers but also have shaped our lives in various ways. 

At the core, my work basically says that we are all products of our past. Every experience, every influence; whether a childhood toy, a favorite video game, or a moment of struggle... they all shape who we become. The past may or may not exist in a physical sense, but it lives on within us, forming the foundation of our identities. Through my art, I hope to encourage viewers to reflect on their own histories, and think about what memories or elements from their past contribute to the person they are today.