A recurring form in my painting is the mandala: I start at a center point and move outwards, creating a pattern that radiates out to the edges of the canvas. I apply paint to my brush before making each mark. The repetition of applying paint to the brush and then to the canvas is, for me, a meditative process.

Set to music, this physical practice becomes like choreography. I work to the beat of the music. The rhythm keeps me going and helps me maintain momentum. I need the backdrop of music to push me along and keep me motivated while I paint.

I grew up listening to hip-hop here and there but really connected to it on a deeper level six years ago. Typically I pick an artist and listen to an album all the way through. I play certain songs to get into a desired headspace to paint. Sometimes I connect with the lyrics, the narrative of a song; other times it’s the beat that resonates.

The music doesn’t directly influence the mood or form of the artwork—I plan the color and mark-making before I start painting. But the energy of the song fuels and sustains my own energy.

The list below is composed of a mixture of new tracks I’m listening to now and a few long-time favorites. My intention was for it to be somewhat upbeat, resonating hope and healing for the current moment.

I don’t usually create playlists for the music I listen to in the studio. More often, I’ll pick a particular song and see where it takes me. This selection reflects that; it’s a wandering journey.