This piece is based on the black-eyed pea or cow pea plant that was also brought over in the transatlantic
slave trade. It’s based on the bloom of the plant, which is such an ethereal, delicate flower. This plant is
also used in food traditions and has deep symbolism. Every year for New Year's Day, my family makes
black-eyed peas, greens, and yams. Each symbolizes something you want in your new year. Black-eyed
peas are for luck and abundance in the new year, and every bean left on the plate is a tear you will shed in
the next year (so you don’t leave any beans on the plate!)