In my first-semester Graduate seminar class, we had an assignment where we had to create a postcard. Our Professor, Norah Zuniga-Shaw, gave us an intro course to Photoshop. She used the Flip-Classroom method (a method in teaching where typical lecture and homework elements of a course are reversed. Short video lectures are viewed by students at home before the class session, while in-class time is devoted to exercises, projects, or discussions.) to get us started. Below are the requirements for our assignment:

1. With your own images or found images from the web and other sources, utilize the tools learned in class to make your own collage postcard.

2. As a guideline: Use at least three layers, at least three images, text and some practical and creative alteration of an image (if you want to do more, go for it!). If you have more experience with Photoshop then challenge yourself to do something new.

I created an image that reflects my interest and personal identity. Because I am interested in the Afro-Diaspora, I chose to use Ankara, Kente, and other West African print design. Over that layer is the US military digital BDU uniform design, this represents me as a veteran. The two women make up me as a creative. Braids have always, in my upbringing, been a form of black power and expression. To have a black woman flip them with such grace is the symbol of AUTHORITY! Then another woman is in her village traditional dress dancing. It represents a symbol of my interest in the origins, expansion, Trans-Atlantic exploration of traditional dance.  The words came from a poem on Instagram praising Black women for being. I played with the transparency and opacity of each layer to give it a weave or collage effect.

I plan on creating more. This assignment was fun and tedious. Let me know what you think.