Oil on canvas, 24”x30”

This portrait of the late rapper Xxxtentacion was created as a birthday gift for my stepson, who deeply admired both the artist and his music. When I asked him if he could have a painting of anyone in the world, he didn’t hesitate, he chose Xxxtentacion.

I poured everything I had into this piece. Xxxtentacion was a huge influence on my stepson as well as his entire generation. As I painted, I listened to his music and found myself connecting with it. I ended up loving many of his songs too.

My stepson was so happy with the painting, and it still hangs in his room to this day. Being a stepmom can be tricky at times, and I was grateful to bond with him through art and music—two things powerful enough to bridge any gap.