Whenever I do portraits of artists, I listen to their music for a while, and I learn so much more about them. My opinion changes about where they stand in my book as an artist and I appreciate their evolution once I get in touch with what the music is feeding me. What "I'm Out" said to me was "I'm Here". Ciara has arrived.
I found myself listening to "I'm Out" out of curiosity a few weeks back and then watching the collaborate performance on the BET awards, I knew this "move" was a win for Ciara.
As the journey of traditionally painting Ciara in gouache and ink started, I was tempted to hit the "buy" button on my Google Play app, which would prompt me to buy her self titled album. I decided to withdraw... and take my chances at listening to her older records on youtube, while constantly replaying the single for the evolved sound. It reminded me of how long Ciara has been in the music industry, and the consistency of her sound. She has evolved, finally being heard again-- by the masses. Her promotion strategies have benefited her and so has being so transparent and accessible on Instagram. We see her more now, and I think we all are in love again!
I She has found her space in a time that is welcoming her with the feel of the 90s. It's working. Whatever is happening is working for Ciara and it's all about the confidence and growth brought to this album.
I finished Ciara, I had to complete the tribute as the record itself is what brought me to pay so much homage to the successful track. Nicki's presence complements the futuristic and commercial sound that Ciara has risen to, or at least the world has finally caught up with (her 2006 and beyond has been futuristic but it seems there wasn't much ear love for that sound). As I worked on Nicki's likeness, I felt it was complete. Together, this anthem says "I'm Out--- of the out crowd".
Bravo Ciara.
Best,
Sara Jean-Baptiste
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