SOD Annual Juried Show

I made a micro documentary on grief a year ago. People have resonated with my vulnerability since, and for that, I am so extremely grateful. My film, “His Voice, My Voice,” delves into how I process grief, change, and cognitive decline in a loved one. This project was one of those moments that made me feel…metaphorically naked. My grief, narrated and on camera, was a new level of raw for me. Despite it all, the short has won two film laurels and now it was best in Photography/Video at Louisiana Tech’s juried student show.

(Me and my award on exhibition night)

Not to be a Debbie Downer, but I like to go through life with very few expectations regarding wins and success. This film was one of those low-expectation projects. I made it, I shared it, I moved on. But another piece of me thought that maybe, just maybe, “His Voice, My Voice” deserved to be seen.

LiftOff Global, Dove Block, and the 2026 SOD Student Show agreed.

Even now, that work feels a little too honest. I suppose that vulnerability, no matter the accolades or people who resonate, will still be vulnerability. The good news? People did resonate. That, to me, is my most important job as an artist.

Despite the rawness I may feel, I did what every artist wishes to do. I made something that helps people outside of myself and gives others a place for their emotions to land and feel safe. Frankly, I am honored.

Also, I totally proved to myself that I am capable of learning video editing software, and pigs didn’t even have to fly for that one.

Thanks again to juror KaDavien Baylor for choosing my work to be part of an amazing 2026 Student Show.

(My lovely momma and I. She drove up to see me)