Today, we invite you to meet Wyntress X’ion (Wynn for short), a self-taught artist whose journey began with childhood doodles on the walls and coffee tables of her Southside Houston home. These unconventional canvases might have drawn a few frowns from her mother, but they also attracted the attention of her family, who nourished her early talents with sketchbooks and art supplies. Today, we celebrate Wynn's artistic journey, which has since transformed into a rich fabric of narratives, textures, and heritage.
One of the highlights of Wynn's work is her daring use of materials, from long-forgotten picture frames to the soil right outside her studio. Her innovative approach allows her to create art that not only pleases the eyes but also engages the sense of touch, inviting the viewer to interact with the artwork beyond a mere visual level.
Among her standout pieces, we highlight 2 of her favorites: "Hueman Being" and "From the Ground Up." In "Hueman Being," Wynn confronts the ongoing fight for justice, freedom, and recognition among Black figures in America. She combines images and words from icons such as Muhammad Ali, Basquiat, and Joe Louis to underscore how Black history is an integral part of American culture. Emphasizing Muhammad Ali's powerful declaration, “I am America, I am the part you won’t recognize,” Butler's work boldly proclaims that the stories and contributions of Black individuals cannot be untangled from the broader narrative of American history
"From the Ground Up" incorporates soil from Wynn's studio, demonstrating her ingenious application of unusual materials in art. This piece captures the raw essence of Wynn's artistry, which seamlessly blends the conventional with the unconventional, to evoke potent feelings of connection to and nostalgia from her youth.
Recently, art enthusiasts in Houston had the opportunity to experience Wynn's work up close in her first solo exhibition, Ebony Love Letter, at the Houston Cultural Center. The exhibition was composed of several thematic sections, each showcasing a different facet of Wynn's artistry.
The heart of the exhibition was an intricate, full-scale recreation of her grandmother's living room, a site of immense personal significance for Wynn. This exhibit transported the audience back to Wynn's roots, allowing them to relish in the colors, textures, and stories that shaped her as an artist.
As Wynn continues on her artistic journey, she remains faithful to her distinctive style, blending tradition with innovation. Each piece of her work serves as a love letter to her heritage, a vibrant narrative of resilience and identity.
Stay tuned for more updates about Wynn and other artists with remarkable stories. We promise you won’t want to miss out.
