“There is a giraffe inside of you.
Come speak with me, so I can show it to you.”
BIO
Visual Conversationalist, Jihada Brown, is a multidisciplinary, nationally exhibiting artist whose work explores self-expression, transformation, and the power of conversation. Best known for her unique interpretations of giraffes, she uses these figures as symbols of authenticity, presence, and individuality. Her creative process is deeply influenced by dialogue, spoken and unspoken, shaping each piece through the energy of interaction and the power of being present.
With a background in elementary art instruction, she works across various mediums, including collage, watercolor, and bold line work, selecting materials that best capture the emotion and essence of each subject and the moment. Her approach is intuitive and fluid, allowing her artwork to unfold organically, much like the conversations that inspire it.
Through her art, she invites viewers into a space of reflection - encouraging them to embrace their own identity without shrinking, without forcing, simply being.
Artist Statement
Keith Haring once wrote, “Sometimes music is a ‘background’ for drawing, but sometimes it becomes an essential part of the creation of work.” This is how I feel about conversations when it comes to my giraffes. Sometimes they exist as a backdrop to my creative process, but other times, they shape the very essence of what I create. Each piece is influenced by the conversations I have, whether spoken or unspoken, just as each individual and each moment of dialogue is unique.
My work explores self-expression, transformation and the beauty of simply being. A giraffe has a longer neck than other animals, yet it does not seem to focus on this. It doesn’t seem to think about how far its head is above the others, nor how strange they may look taking a drink. The giraffe just is, and it is this I admire most. It does not shrink, nor does it strive to stand out, it simply exists. This is the energy I bring to my work. My giraffes are not bound by any rules - they reflect an inner expression of identity, presence, and authenticity. What I put on canvas or paper, is what I am given. I exist to receive. I serve as the middle point between the essence of a being, and the ability to see their own essence.
Different ideas require different artistic languages. Some expressions require collage, layered, textured, and complex, while others call for the fluidity of watercolor or the boldness of heavy acrylic and line work. The choice of medium, texture, and form is never random; it serves the emotion and story behind each piece.
At its core, my work invites viewers into a space of self-reflection. Just as my giraffes evolve through creative exploration, my art encourages others to embrace their own individuality without shrinking, without forcing, just being.
Exhibitions.
CowParade — San Antonio, TX — April 2025
Benefitting CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation
Far More Precious that Jewels — San Antonio, TX
February - April 2025 — The Carver Community Center
UNREPPED Art Fair — Dallas, TX
September 2024 — Daisha Board Art Gallery
From Here y De Alla Reflections on Elizabeth Catlett Mora
San Antonio, TX September 2024 — Esparanza Peace and Justice Center
Afrofuturism Exhibition — Greensboro, NC
August 2024 — African American Atelier
San Antonio Ethnic Artist Society – Lunch with the Artists Pop up Exhibition & Art Auction — San Antonio, TX August 2024
Juneteenth Art Exhibition — San Antonio, TX
June 2024 — Eye of the Beholder Gallery
Juried Art Show with San Marcos Art League – San Marcos, TX May, 2024
Mixed Media Festival & Art Exhibition — Houston, TX September 2023
Until the End Art Exhibition Nolanville, TX August 8th, 2023