LaSonia S. Ragsdale is a midwest artist and art educator based in Milwaukee, WI. She holds a Masters in Education from Alverno College and her BFA in Graphic Design. She has completed the MARNmentors Art Program and was honorably chosen as a 2022 Pfister Artist in Residence Finalist. From the age of 9, she has explored with many mediums and techniques such as beading, spoken word, portraiture and floral art. Social justice and human rights are at the root of many pieces LaSonia has created. Her versatility is revealed within the vibrant layers of her floral pieces. LaSonia's live portraitures translate the essence of that individual onto the canvas, showing the movement, energy and life. This reflective, intentional process helps her portray the individuals’ soul. LaSonia is currently working on a series telling the history of head wraps, with plans on her next series of hand-beaded arts pieces. Past exhibition venues include MIAD, Averno, and No Studios, amongst others. LaSonia is an artist with Var Gallery.
Visions of Chicago in the 90's
My art is a way to express myself and explore the world that we live in.
Art is a stage where I perform and freely express my thoughts and feelings about my internal self and the external world. It feels like an adventure every time I create a new piece, I never know where it will take me and I love the journey.
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The "Obstruction of Legacy: 1619" painting is a testimony about how much has truly been taken or lost from the Black culture due to slavery. Yet, there's this knowing that the essence of our African heritage and ancestry is carried within our bones.
My painting process mainly focuses on layers and texture using black and strikingly bold colors. Florals and people have always been a favorite theme. Creatively, I expand into hand beading and sewing leather bags. I believe that this is an incredible time in my life to elevate myself and others with my creative works.
