I am an artist that dwells in both visual art and writing. My art is narrative to focus on being able to tell multiple stories with similar themes that deal with queer identity, family, and religion and how these subjects have a relationship with each other. My intention for these subjects is to create a world where conversations surrounding these topics are happening on a larger scale. Growing up I have consumed various types of media that addresses familial issues and have used religion or spirituality as a guide to solving their problems. However, it is easier said than done for people who have been labeled as the ‘black sheep’ of the family and had to find alternatives for dealing with trauma when the subjects at matter are being used as obstacles in their development. I have researched books and films that tackle this issue and use what inspires me to craft them into my own. My work explores new ideas and stories that feel unheard when dealing with the unsettling reality of trying to find yourself in a world that wasn’t built for you. T’Aira Lashae is an interdisciplinary artist based in Chicago since 2021 who uses mediums such as painting, writing, and fibers to explore the Black queer experience. They are passionate about narrative art that dives into their own identity and intends for it to relate to a bigger audience. T’Aira is inspired by her own personal experiences and media like books and films and their most recent work reflects on writings by Audre Lorde and Toni Morrison. They currently attend the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the BFA program and have worked on art group showings prior to college.