Bevadine Zoma Terrell

RECENT WORK - "MY COLOURED GIRLS"

Alienanna - 2019 - 15" x 13" 

Alienanna

Growing up many of the science fiction movies that we watched always featured aliens of the scary-kind. Many of them featured aliens that were green in color, oversized heads with enormous eyes and funny shaped bodies and space guns. When we would go to see science fiction movies, I would sometimes cover my eyes when the scary aliens came on the screen. As I got older the depiction of alien little green men and women became obsolete in representation and have been replaced by highly stylized robots and other forms of AI. Sometimes I meet people who act like aliens, not familiar with this world.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

All Things Easter, Pink, Green, Valerie and In Between - 2020 - 18" x 18" 

All Things Easter, Pink, Green, Valerie and In Between

The Word pink has often been used in declarations: pretty in pink, pink slip, Pink elephant or in the pink. Pink is also the symbol/color for breast cancer awareness and programs. Whether you are riding on Aretha Franklin’s “Freeway of Love” in her pink Cadillac or driving one of Mary Kay’s Pink Cadillacs you are in the pink. The color pink is eye-catching and makes a statement. In tribute to Aretha Franklin the “Queen of Soul”, 100 pink Cadillacs lined up outside of her church on the day of her funeral.

The colors pink, shades of green and turquoise were always my favorite Easter colors. My mom would always purchase PAAS Egg Coloring kits every Easter for us to decorate boiled eggs. We would also make Easter baskets in school out of woven strips of pink and green construction paper. My mom and Grandma would give us Easter baskets filled with artificial green grass, pink and turquoise peeps, jelly beans, chocolate bunnies and decorated eggs.

Valerie Cecilia White is one of my best friends. We are both “Jersey Girls” from Vauxhall and Somerset, New Jersey. We both attended Howard University’s College of Fine Arts. While there I knew Valerie casually. We graduated at the same time with Bachelors of Fine Arts degrees on Saturday, May 12, 1973. After graduation we both were hired to teach Art in the Washington, D.C. Public School System. In 1981 I was transferred from Benjamin Banneker Junior High School to Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School to teach Art. The Art room was designed as an open-spaced classroom that housed two teachers. Initially I did not know who my colleague would be. When I entered the classroom at Dunbar the other teacher turned out to be Valerie and the rest is history. We became as close as blood sisters. It was a blessing to come to work every day. We became family! I am Aunt Bev and the Godmother of her two sons, Robert, and Randall. It is truly been a blessing to be a part of her family. Valerie and I have always talked about getting back to our Art, finding a medium to work in and creating Art. She was always trying to convince me to get back to my Art work. In the early years Valerie was a Fine Art Crafter. Every celebrated holiday was feted with Valerie’s creative, genius talents. Presently she is a Mixed-Media Quilt Artist. Her quilt series are historical, they tell stories, are extraordinary, and exciting. Valerie’s quilts are breathtaking! Her work can be found in numerous publications and private collections. As stated by Nicole Richie on friendship, “True friends are like diamonds – bright, beautiful, valuable and always in style”, and Valerie is all that!

The colors pink and green are very meaningful to her because they are the colors of her sorority, AKA: Alpha Kappa Alpha. I am so proud of our friendship and her artistic journey!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Aunt Shirley - 2022 - 13" x 15-1/2"

Aunt Shirley

Aunt Shirley professionally known as Shirley Horne, was a very famous jazz singer and pianist. One of Washington D.C.’s own native entertainers extraordinaire. She was very close to my family. I first met her when I was 7 years old. When my brother, sisters and I met Aunt Shirley she lovingly asked us to call her Aunt Shirley. Whenever she performed in New Jersey, New York and other close by cities and states she would always spend a couple of days with our family. My mom’s brother Frank Maxwell who was a Washington, D.C. resident, was a pianist, music teacher, and one of Aunt Shirley’s best friends. Mom was also one of Aunt Shirley’s best friends, her seamstress, and designer. She created many of Aunt Shirley’s performance outfits. In May of 1995 my mother and I attended a taping of one of Aunt Shirley’s albums., “The Main Ingredient”. It was produced at her home in Washington, D.C., May 15 – 18, 1995. It was a magical experience!

Aunt Shirley was a child prodigy at age 4 and at age 12 studied piano and composition at Howard University. At age 18 she attended a special music studies program at Howard University. In 1960 Aunt Shirley went to New York to record her first album titled Embers and Ashes. Many years later she gave me a copy of this album signed with a loving message.

Aunt Shirley was married to Sheppard, Shep” Deering, and they had one daughter Rainy. Whenever our family visited Washington, D.C. to see my mom’s brother and his family we always visited Aunt Shirley’s home. We spent times eating crabs, going to Sparrows Beach, and watching horseshoe crabs at night on the beach, listening to Aunt Shirley play and sing, barbecues in the backyard, and just being together. Aunt Shirley was also an awesome cook! Her meals were cooked with love, legendary, and tasted fantastic! She was very casual and down to earth at home.

My siblings and I attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. This gave us more opportunities to hang out with Aunt Shirley. The first house that I bought was in Washington, D.C. and located within walking distance of Aunt Shirley’s home.  When we got older, we attended many of Aunt Shirley’s performances at clubs and other entertainment venues. We have many wonderful memories of Aunt Shirley, Rainy and Shep.

 My brother Tom who became a music journalist, was Shirley’s favorite. They shared a deep connection of music. He penned many articles about her in numerous music magazines and newspapers. The Shirley Horn Trio was world renowned. She had fans who were very faithful to her music. They would follow her all over the world just to hear her sultry, raspy, melodic, sensual sound.  Her performances had a way of drawing you into a musical trance, holding on to each note sung and played.

Aunt Shirley performed and collaborated with many jazz greats; Miles Davis, Ron Carter, Buck Hill, Carmen McRae, Toots Thielemans Wynton Marsalis, Ahmad Jamal, Roy Hargrove, Steve Novosel, Joe Henderson, to name a few. She received many awards and honors during her life’s journey, two of which were receiving a Grammy music award at the 41st Grammy celebration on February 24, 1999 for “Best Jazz Performance” for her recording of “I Remember Miles” which was a tribute to her mentor, Miles Davis and receiving a honorary Doctoral degree from Berklee College of music in 2002.

She passed away peacefully on October 20, 2005. Even though she is gone her music lives on! The ending music lyric lines of one of my favorite Aunt Shirley recordings, “Here’s To Life”, reads:

May all your storms be weathered

And all that’s good get better

Here’s to life

Here’s to love

Here’s to you!!!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Azula - The Blue Sun Spirit - 2018 - 15" x 15" 

Azula "The Blue Sun Spirit"

When I look at the sun I see it’s radiance and it’s yellowness. The heat of the sun and it’s brightness usually makes for a nice day at the beach, a picnic or just sunning in your own backyard. Sunny days usually bring out the best in most people. They are kinder, more helpful, tolerant, and happier. Azula “The Sun Spirit” operates differently. She exudes a warm coolness. The color blue on the color wheel is considered to be a color that gives you the feeling of coolness and calmness. Azula The Sun Spirit” comes out to cool you when it is too hot and calms you when you are overwrought.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Bison Blu/HU-U-Know...A Blast From The Past - 2020 - 16" x 20" 

Bison Blu/HU U-Know !!! …"A Blast From the Past"

Howard University provided an unforgettable journey stop for me and other family members. My uncle Frank Maxwell, My Aunt Margaret Maxwell, my brother Tom Terrell my sisters Mona Terrell-Wallace and Michelle Terrell-Long, my niece Jessica L. Brown and of course me, were Howard University Graduates. My sister Michelle and myself also received our Masters Degrees from Howard University. In August of 1968 my family drove to Washington, D.C. to take my brother Thomas G. Terrell to Howard University to begin his collegiate journey. After taking his luggage to Slowe Hall, his assigned dormitory, we ventured to main campus. The campus was bustling with new freshmen, their families and returning students. Coming from a school system that was predominately white, it was for me overwhelming to see so many African-Americans and other nationalities. When I stepped on main campus, I knew I was home! My mind was already made up. Next year I was going to do whatever I could to get accepted to Howard University!

My brother Tom and I have always been very close. So, when I got accepted to The Howard University College of Fine Arts I was over the moon! Tom and I would be back together again. He was very popular and well-liked on campus. He was Mr. Entertainment. When I got to Howard University my brother made sure that I settled in and began my college journey successfully. Getting my school work done was not a problem. Tom made sure that I had a wonderful social life. I always had places to go – parties, concerts, plays, and political meetings. I met many interesting people who have become life-long friends through Tom. I gained a very close Howard family. While at Howard University I also met some of the most culturally, informative, creative, politically aware, and committed people at Howard.

Homecomings at “The Mecca” always were and always will be my chicken soup for the soul! Every year seeing old friends and reliving some of our most impressionable and memorable moments is always a very special time of the year.

The teachings, the awesome notable teachers and professors and classroom interactions in The College of Fine Arts Art Department are memorable. On many occasions, students got the opportunity to be taught and attend lectures by some of the premier and outstanding artists, professors, political activists, literary giants, philosophers, historians, religious giants, top musicians, stellar business leaders,  architects, athletes, scientists, and medical trailblazers. Some of my fondest memories of my Howard University journey are:

Freshman Week/ Campus Pal/ Freshman Boat ride

Dormitory life

College of Fine Arts- My second home

Attending Sports activities

Attending plays at Ira Aldridge Theatre (I even danced on stage in a play there)

Homecoming- parade, football game, half time show, hanging on the yard after the game, Homecoming parties and dances

Pre-Dawn Concert and other concerts throughout the schoolyear

Punch Out - Old Student Center

Founders Library

Bethune Hall/The Quad/Drew Hall/ Cook Hall/Slowe Hall/Meridian Hall

The “A” Building

Lifelong Girlfriends

Boyfriends/Relationships

Gracie and Louie’s Carryout

Hot Shops/Orange Freeze/Coleslaw

Florida Avenue Grill

Mr. Deas Carryout

Wings and Things

Eddie Leonards

Thrifty Carryout

The Gym

Soul Squad

Campus Activities Friday afternoons on Main Campus/Sororities and Fraternities stepping and meeting up with friends

Ed Murphy’s Super Club

Student Protests

Panty Raid

Cramton Auditorium/Concerts/Chapel Service

Graduations

I cherish and hold dear the many wonderful people and the great memories made while at the Mecca-Howard University – HU U-Know!!!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Black and White - 2019 - 22" x 22" 

Black and White

The colors black and white are must have colors for me. The colors of black and white are essential to my clothing wardrobe. When I am feeling on the fat side a black outfit, be it a dress, suit, gown or warm-up outfit hides a lot of lumps and bumps. When I want to look sexy, a little black dress always does the trick. When I want to look angelic, pure, light, airy, and cool I wear white. Sometimes I wear all sorts of white and black combinations from head to toe.

The colors black and white, bring back many life memories:

1.   Playing in the streets and walking the white lines as a kid

2.   Playing the first piano tune that I learned on the black and white piano keys, “Chopsticks.”

3.   All the beautiful black and black and white outfits made for me by my mom

4.   Playing pool and watching the “eight ball”

5.   Singing the song sung by Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney, “Ebony and Ivory”

6.   Staying away from skunks

7.   My black UR (fake fur coat)

8.   My mom trying to teach me how to play dominoes and watching people in the summertime playing dominoes

9.  Watching the penguins at the zoo and many viewings of the movie “Happy Feet”

10.  My black and white patent -leathered shoes and matching pocketbook

11.  Black and white stripes on the shirts of referees

12.  Rolling dice in a table game

13.  My first new car, a black Aries K car, my first white Hyundai Santa Fe SUV and my newest car, a black Santa Fe SUV

14.  Having to wear black to a funeral

15.  The Yin and Yang symbol

16.  The racial divide between black and white people

As stated in Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney’s song “Ebony and Ivory”, “Ebony and Ivory live together in perfect harmony side by side on my piano keyboard, oh Lord why don’t we ?” Stevie and Paul released this song March 29, 1982. This song theme used the black and white piano keys as an example of racial harmony. During this time this was one of my favorite songs.

I love black and white colors. As a little girl we watched a lot of western themed shows: Bat Masterson, Rifleman, Roy Rodgers. The good guys always wore white and rode a white horse and the bad guys wore black. I always struggled with that concept and mindset.

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Bumble Bees and Other Yellow, Black, and White Memories - 2019 - 15" x 15" 

Bumble Bees and Other Yellow, Black and White Memories

Bumble Bees, Fire Flies, Yellow Cabs, My Favorite Black and yellow tweed Karate coat, mommies black and yellow tweed suit , black and white zig-zag design dress made by mommy and Gramma Liza’s customers laundry are some of my childhood memories.

As a child one of the activities that we participated in would be to catch bumblebees during the day and fire flies at dusk and put them in mason jars. We would get mason jars and use a nail to make holes in the jar lid so that the bees and fire flies could breathe. Then we would get flower tops and place them in the jar for the bees. We would have a lot of fun trying to catch bees and seeing who could catch the most bees without getting stung. Then after a hard day’s work at catching bees, we would let them go.

I love catching fire flies/lightning bugs. You had to be very quick and vigilant. I would only see them in the summer. They would bring magic to a summer night with the flashing of their white lights. In high school I learned that different species of fire flies/lightening bugs have a pattern of light flashings. Some patterns of light flashings are from male bugs signaling for a female bugs attention. We would catch the lightning bugs, put them in a jar and just watch as their lights flickered off and on.

I rode my first yellow cab in New York City in 1962.It was amazing and scary to see hundreds of yellow cabs lined up waiting for fairs. I used to think that the cab meter was so cool. As a youngster I did not know that the cool meter clicking sound..click..click..click, was the clocking of the fare that you had to pay when you reached your destination.

My mom was always making clothes for the family. In 1985 she made me this gorgeous black and yellow tweed karate styled coat. It is made in the style of a karate Gi. I still have it in my wardrobe. She also made herself a beautiful black and yellow tweed suit. When I received my Masters of Fine Arts degree in 1983 from Howard University, my mom made me a beautiful fitted white dress with black zig-zag designs for my me to wear. I loved and wore the dress so much that I had to eventually dispose it.

My grandmother was not only the owner of her own store, “Maxwell’s Confectionary” but she also made extra monies washing and ironing clothes for clients. A lot of her laundry was white sheets, table cloths, towels and pillowcases. Back during that time my grandmother had a ringer washing machine and the items were hung on the clothesline in the backyard. When my grandmother washed white items, they came out whiter than white and they smelled so clean. In the summertime the whiteness of all the items on the clothesline was blinding. On the days that she washed clothes I would watch her hang the clothes on the clothesline. She had a system. She had a cloth bag full of clothespins on her left shoulder and pre-folded sheets or other items to be hung in her right hand. Then she would begin to hang the items on the line. On sunny days it was so beautiful to see the items blowing in the wind.

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Busy Woman - 2019 - 22" x 22" 

Busy Woman

In honor of all stay -at -home mom’s to CEO’s and all other jobs or commitments in between, a busy women’s agenda is always full. Some women are non-stop. Women’s lives are fuller today than ever before. Their lives are filled with home, child-care, work, community involvement, and self-care responsibilities. Either being a stay at home mom, a work force mom, entrepreneur or CEO, busy women always have a lot going on in their world. There is always something to do, somewhere to go, someone to see about, or a mission to be accomplished. They are mountain movers, mothers, mates, role models, mentors, educators, planners, influencers, political activists, change agents, and just plain awesome. As seasons are ever changing so are the days of a busy woman. There are always “reasons why we are always here”. Long live the “Busy Woman”.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Carnivalla -2019 - 13" x 7" 

Carnivalla

Carnivals, festivals, and parades are wonderful! The music, energy, bands, organizations, dancing, floats, costumes and people make them the memorable events that they are. I have attended parades and festivals in many states. One year my niece participated in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with her school band. When the Redskins Football team now known as the Commanders won the Super Bowl in 1992 the city held a big parade. I was a sponsor of the majorettes, flag twirlers and banner carriers at Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School where I was employed. Our band was asked to lead the parade.

 I have not had the opportunity to attend The Madi Gras in New Orleans but over the years I have attended Caribbean festivals in Washington, D.C., Caribana in Toronto, Canada, Junkanoo in the Bahamas, and Labor Day Caribbean Festivals in Baltimore, Maryland and Brooklyn, New York.

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Celebrate Good Times - 2019 - 22" x 22" 

Celebrate Good Times

Music is tied to some of my best memories. Memories of party music, weddings and funerals, concerts, and graduations. When the group Kool and The gang came on the scene with the song “Celebration” in 1980, I was all in loving the lyrics and the music…

“There’s a party goin’ on right here

A celebration to last throughout the years

So bring your good times and your laughter too Wegonna celebrate your party with you

Come now

CELEBRATION”

Throughout my high school and college years and beyond I have had or have participated in numerous celebrations… Celebrating the life or birth of a loved one, getting awards and honors, picnics, weddings, graduations, retirements, getting a new home or new car, relationships old and new and parties, parties, parties. If any of you knew anything about my infamous brother Tom Terrell, Mr. Entertainment, party animal, Mr. Whatsup and his parties on R Street and the Italian Villa you were in good company. Some of my celebratory memories were:

When I purchased my first car in 1974

When my two nieces Zomona and Jessica were born

When me, my sisters and brother, and my two nieces graduated from college. The feelings of pride and accomplishment expressed by my parents was unforgettable. Witnessing the graduation ceremonies at Howard and Rutgers Universities were dreams that came true for them to see.

When my Dad received his GED from the South Plainfield Night School Program. He was the valedictorian!

The house parties at 54 R Street N.E. were always unforgettable events. They were epic!!! The neighbors would set their lawn chairs out and party on their lawn. We partied from sun up until sun down. My brother Tom was the DJ and he had the music thumping and pumping. At about 5:00 or 6:00 am the last partiers left would help clean up and I would make breakfast.

When my nieces graduated from elementary, junior high/middle school, high school, and college.

When my mom and dad celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary with an awesome party. My dad sang “Lady” by Lionel Ritchie to my mom. There were so many friends and relatives there from all over the United States.

When my parents were selected as “Congressional National Parent’s Day Award’ recipients for their congressional district by their Congressman Bob Franks in 1994.

When I was a participant in many weddings

When I received my Masters Degree in 1983 and my Doctorate degree in 1993. My family held a picnic/party for me to celebrate my doctoral accomplishment.

When I purchased my first home

My brother Tom’s “Celebration of Life” service which was held at his beloved Howard university’s Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel. It was fantastic. So many of his friends from all parts of the United States attended. The repast was held at his favorite musical stomping ground the 9:30 Club.

Our annual picnic to celebrate the spirit, the peace, the happiness and the love of our heavenly angelic Tom in Rock Creek Park. An awesome time that brings together the friends and the spirit of Tom for one more earthly jam and fellowship opportunity.

Celebrating Mom’s 95th Surprise Birthday Party which was attended by many family members and friends

Celebrating mom’s transition from home to heaven, August 5, 2022. Honoring and cherishing her 99 years on earth.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Celebrating My Hairness - 2022 - 22" x 22" 

Celebrating My Hairness

From pigtails to all of my hairstyles and in-between, to my now present curly/natural, this head has been on a long hair journey for years. I can remember as a young child having my hair braided or corn-rolled. My mom would divide my scalp in half with a comb. She would comb out a piece of hair in the front for my bang. Then she would oil or grease my scalp and either corn-roll or braid two plaits often putting ribbons on the end of each plait. This hairstyle was deemed appropriate for young girls at that time. She then  rolled a piece of brown from a paper bag and roll the hair in the front for my bang.

My mom gave me my first straightening comb and curler hairdo. She would use pressing oil and curling wax while straightening and curling my hair. During the pressing and straightening process I would hold my ears down so they would not get burned. Sometimes I could hear the pressing oil sizzling or smell hair burning. I always got my hair “Pressed and Curled “for special occasions”. The maintenance and upkeep of the press and curl style was not always easy. Sweating, getting caught in the rain without a rain bonnet, water getting in your swimming cap, or any other direct contact with water and your hair produced an unwelcomed outcome. Water + most textures of African-American hair unpermed or unprocessed hair usually resulted in a case of the frizzies or nappies which was unacceptable back then. I can remember some of the hair products that I have used over the years: Dixie Peach Pomade, Sulfur 8, Dippity Do, Care Free Curl Perm, Royal Crown, Bergamont, Alberto VO5, Crown Royal, Blue Magic Pressing Oil, and Marcel Curling Wax.

When I entered high school I began to get relaxers, perms, hair coloration and wearing wigs. Towards my junior year in high school there was a rise in  Black Pride. Perms, Processes and curled do’s and other unnatural hairstyles became unacceptable and began to be replaced by “The Afro”. Before I left home for college my mom gave me a hair-care box filled with hair care products, brushes straightening combs, perm products, shampoos and conditioners, hairnets, rain bonnets, grease and oils. When I arrived at Howard University just about everybody was sporting afro’s of different sizes, colors and styles and braided hairstyles. My hair styles fluctuated between natural, press and curl and permed hairstyles. Upon college graduation I entered the world of work with perms, relaxers, braided styles and afro’s. After about 20 years of multiple hair journeys, I decided to end that journey and lead my hair to a healthy place. I began to let my hair grow out to its naturalness and present condition. I am happy that I am natural and nappy again.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Chapoe

My Godmother, Aunt Alma Hogan was a milliner. She designed and created many extravagantly beautiful hats for her clients and fashion shows. She was one of my mother’s best friends. They shared a common interest... the love of fashion and the wearing of chapoes/chapeau, to complement each outfit. A chapoe/chapeau is a French term for hat. My mom, Zoma Terrell, was a fashion designer, tailor, seamstress and creator of fine fashions. She has been a lover of wearing chapoes/chapeau/ as far back as I can remember. She always wore hats to church every Sunday. When Aunt Alma and mom got their fashion wardrobes together, mom with the fashions and Aunt Alma with the accompanying hats either matching or complementing, the outcome was simply stunning. My mother took me to many fashion shows throughout New Jersey. Some of the models wore clothes made by mom while we attended other shows as spectators and for enjoyment. Mom was the person who inspired me to wear chapoes/chapeaus. Aunt Alma passed away in 2012 and mom in 2022.

Many of the fashions that we viewed were travelling shows by Newark New Jersey’s “First Lady of Fashion” Emily Miles. She was well known for her fashion acumen and well respected. She was a former model, fashion designer and a producer of fashion shows.  It was said that her fashion shows were sometimes booked two years in advance. Many of her shows included all fashions designed by her. She was very fond of the use of chapoes /chapeaus in her fashion shows. The fashion commentators would shout out in a big way all the chapoes/chapeaus.

 In an article in the Daily News, April 4, 1983 Ms. Miles stated that “a woman’s outfit was always incomplete without a hat”. Ms. Miles was also the owner of the world renown ‘Belle Meade Charm School which later on provided Ms. Miles with the Belle Meade Models who often modeled in her fashion shows. The last Emily Miles Fashion Show that I attended was at one of her favorite venues, The Robert Treat Hotel in Newark in the 90’s. The fashions were exquisite and the chapoes/chapeaus were fabulous. Ms. Miles passed away on June 11, 1999.

In Washington, D.C. we were very blessed and honored to have our own iconic Hat Lady, Ms. Vanilla Beane who was a well sort after milliner and businesswoman. She was the owner of Bene’ Millinery & Bridal Supplies located in Northwest, Washington, D.C. Mrs. Beane passed away October 23, 2022 at the age of 103. She was still making hats up until her death. Her hats were worn by many notable women. Dorothy Height, Civil Rights icon/activist and retired Judge Mary Terrell were some of her top clients. Ms. Height is pictured on a United States postage stamp wearing one of Ms. Beane Hats. One of her hats is also displayed in an exhibit at the National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Chocolate Memories - 2020 - 16" x 16" 

Chocolate Memories

Chocolate Memories is a tribute to all thing’s chocolate and brown: beautiful all shades of brown people, and my long-gone brown leather coat suit and boots. My grandmother owned a store called “Maxwell’s Confectionary.” It was a mini grocery store. As a child I would work in the store completing many different tasks and running errands. I also got a chance to spend quality time with my grandmother. I liked that. When I think of her I just smile or just shake my head. I got my early lessons in math and customer service tips from her. I had a lot of opportunities to come in contact with a lot of chocolate items: Devil Dogs, Chocolate Creamies, Tasty Cake and Pies, Dolly Madison chocolate and coffee ice creams, Candy Bars – 3 Musketeers, Hersey Bars, SNICKERS Bar, Black Cow, grandma’s chocolate and coffee icing cakes, Nestle Crunch Bar, Milky Way, Mounds, Rasinettes, and Peppermint Patty’s. Some of my favorite drinks were Yahoo chocolate drink, Hot Chocolate and Chocolate Milk. One chocolate item that I hated was Ex-Lax., a laxative that my grandmother swore by to help with constipation after eating all that chocolate. What are some of your favorite chocolate memories?

Author – Bevadine Zoma  Terrell 2023

Dream Keeper - 2022 - 20" x 18" 

DREAM KEEPER

I used to dream a lot when I was a kid. I would dream about flying around my neighbor, visiting foreign countries and vacation destinations, being a famous artist, movie star, an entertainer, a princess, and a teacher. Sometimes my dreams would be about an event that happened earlier that day. Sometimes my dreams would contain remnants from the last TV show that I watched. Sometimes my dreams would leave me solutions to problems. Sometimes I would remember my dreams and other times I would forget. There were nights when I would not dream at all. There are some occasions when my dreams would be wild and crazy. In the past I have had many dreams of deceased loved ones and friends. My dreams now are more real. Sometimes they are so real that I must wake myself up to end the dream.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Everybody Is A Star (Super Talented and Resourceful, Respected, Resilient, Rich In Love, Peace, Happiness, Power and Energy) 

Everybody Is A S.T.A.R. (Super Talented and Resourceful, Respected, Resilient, Rich in Love, Peace, Happiness, Power and Energy)

As the song written and sung by the musical group Earth, Wind, and Fire, says “You’re a shining star no matter who are, Shining bright to see, What you could truly be (what you could truly be),  or as stated by Sly and The Family Stone “Everybody Is A Star”, Everybody is a star, I can feel it when you shine on me, I love you for who you are, Not the one you feel you need to be.” Tyra Banks, world renowned super model in her song “Be A Star” sings “Shine bright. Shine far, Don’t be shy, Be a star, Where you live, Where you are, Be a star”. Everybody has some type of outstanding talent that sets them apart from the rest. Your talent is something that you do in your own way that gives you that shine, that star quality! That confidence! It could be the best whatever! You must find your own niche. You must let your true self come out and SHINE, SHINE, SHINE! A quote by Norman Vincent Peale states” Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you will land among the stars.” Always remember, that Everybody is a star! This means YOU!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Flora Aivana - 2020 - 17-1/2" x 11-1/2" 

Flora Aivana

I love indoor and outdoor plants especially the flowering kind. Spring is one of my favorite seasons. It gives me the opportunity to plant beautiful plants outside that I can see and smell their aroma every day. Each day when I leave home and return, just seeing the beautiful display of colors is breathtaking and soothing to my eyesight and warming to my soul. In my driving travels the beautiful front yard displays of many homes and businesses are a pleasuring sight.

It has been said that not only do indoor plants enhance the room environment but they also boost your mood, provide a welcoming non-stress environment, and help to release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.

In Roman Mythology Flora is the Goddess of flowering plants. She is also associated with the coming of Spring. The name Flora comes from the Latin word flos which means flower. The name Aivana comes from the Niger-Congo countries of Africa. It derives from Swahili/Kiswahili and is related to the Kiswahili name Ayana. The name Aivana means “beautiful or wild flower or flower of beauty.

Every Spring I plant colorful flowering plants in front of my home. I also have pots of flowers placed strategically on my front porch and on the side of my home.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Georgia Peach Stacey Abrams with That Blue Georgia Glow - 2019 - 16" x 16" 

Georgia Peach Stacey Abrams With That Blue Georgia Glow!

In honor of her political career and serving as a Voting Rights Activist, Lawyer, Politician, Author, former Gubernational candidate for Governor of Georgia and a Nobel Peace Prize nominee for her work to promote non-violent change via the ballot box. Stacey Abrams also served as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives from 2007 – 20017. I had the distinct honor and pleasure of meeting her at a Congressional Black Caucus National Action Network reception in September 2018 in Washington, D.C. I was impressed and inspired by her dedication and work with voting rights then and now. She is keeping the faith and running the race to educate and provide people with the power and the tools that they need to succeed at the polling sites.

S-Simply the best, Stupendous

T- Talented, Terrific

A – Awesome, Aggressive

C – Creative, Courageous

E - Excellence, Energizer

Y – Yes, she is the MVP Voting Warrior!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Giving Thanks - 2020 - 15" x 20"

Giving Thanks

I give thanks for all the opportunities that I had to spend quality time with family and friends. There have been many graduations, christenings, funerals, picnics, weddings and holiday gatherings that have just been memorable. As far back that I can remember until I reached my 30” s, my family and I have spent many Thanksgivings and Christmases together at my parents’ home. After my 30’s we decided to reserve Thanksgiving as our family get together.

Thanksgiving seemed to be the holiday that everyone could fit in their schedule. We would either celebrate at mom and dad’s house or at my sister Mona’s in New Jersey. After my dad passed away in 1993, we began to celebrate Thanksgiving at my home or my sister Michelle’s home in Washington D.C. In 2005 my brother was diagnosed with cancer and we moved our celebration back to New Jersey in 2006 so that he could spend one of his last Thanksgivings at the family home.

Thanksgiving was always a time for each participant to come together in peace, love, and great food. Everybody had their specialty. Mom would prepare the turkey, dressing, gravy, creamed onions, potato salad and coleslaw. My specialty was collard greens, black-eyed peas, macaroni with cheese, candied sweet potatoes and sweet potato souffle with marshmallows. Mona would fix hors d’ oeuvres, mixed drinks and a rum punch to die for. Michelle would stuff a fish, make barbecued meatballs, and make “slap your face sweet potato pies. My brother Tom would bring ice cream, the best apple cider, chips, dips, and homemade rolls. All invited friends and relatives brought other deserts, all the wine, beverages, and alcohol. Before sitting down to eat we would always make a large circle holding hands for our remembrance  of angelic relatives and friends and the blessing of the food. After eating all that food, the male members would retreat to the tv area to watch football and most of the female members would clean the kitchen, put the food away and move to the dining or living rooms to chit chat, eat more deserts and drink drinks.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Gramma Liza - 2018 - 14" x 14" 

Gramma Eliza (AKA Liza)

Eliza Maxwell was the first African-American business woman/entrepreneur that I knew about up close and personal. She was my grandmother. She was the owner and operator of “Maxwell’s Confectionery” in Vauxhall, New Jersey. It was a small mini-market filled with just about any product you could think of. If the store did not have a particular item that you needed Gramma Liza would try to get it. She was a very hard worker. Not only did she have a thriving business but she also had additional small businesses on the side and did maid’s work for a lot of well-to- do white families. She was a member of many organizations in and near the town that she lived in. In addition to the many skills and talents that she possessed she was an awesome cook and baker. Lord how mercy this sister could cook up a kitchen storm. I always loved it when she made cakes and pies. I could always eat the left-over cake and pie batter when she finished mixing.

She also made artificial floral accessories (corsages, boutonnieres etc.) that the grandkids would sell door to door in the community. Whenever her orders would get overwhelming, she would let me assist.

Eliza was born in Savannah , Georgia and later on in life after getting married and divorced moved her 4 children Frank, Zoma (my mom), O’Neal, Corridean and her mother, Mamie Jenkins  to Vauxhall, New Jersey. I admired her spirit, spunk, savviness, attitude, tenacity, and tough ways. I loved her dearly almost as much as I loved my mom. She was the best grandmother ever. To me she was Gramma Liza, my special sweetheart.

As a little girl, maybe around 4 or 5 years old she let me help in the store. I loved dusting, organizing, and putting things together. She gave me many opportunities to display my talents. As I got older, she would let me use my artistic talents to make signs for the store and it’s products. Gramma Liza was so wise and very interesting. All types of interesting people would visit the store to purchase items and sometimes to sit and gossip or seek some of her sage advice. She was a good listener. Some people would have a running credit tab at the store that was kept on individualized brown paper bags to be paid every Friday. My grandmother was sweeter than her cakes and sweet potato pies!

She was very short and stocky in stature but very strong. You did not mess with her or sass her. She gave respect and demanded it back from others. Her hair was soft and cottony. I still remember the touch and texture of her hair. After I wash my hair and let it dry it feels and looks “soft and cottony” just like hers. Never forgotten were my years in the store and all the great people who passed through, the backyard barbecues and picnics, the house parties, the Friday happy hours with her girlfriends drinking her homemade grape and dandelion wines, selling dinners out of the back porch windows, her garden and grapevines, selling corsages and boutonnieres, The Spiritual Teas, her infamous bus rides to Atlantic City, Asbury Park, Canada, Rye Beach, 7 Rocks beach, and picnics at Echo Lake Park. Awesome memories! I always loved it when people called me Little Liza. When she passed away, I was devastated. My heart was broken. As years passed her leaving became bearable. For many years I would dream about her and one day my dreams of her stopped. I often still think of all our special moments and the great times we had.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Grandma's Love, Lace and Lavender - 2021 - 21" x 17" 

Grandma's Love, Lace and Lavender

Even though my grandmother was tough and stern to the public she was a very loving person. Every time I saw her she would greet me with a tight grandma hug squeezing the life out of me. I looked forward to that experience each time. She also was very funny. She loved the smell of lavender and the look of lace. She made little silk satchel bags and filled them with dried lavender. She placed the bags in and around all the bedrooms especially in the dresser drawers. She had lace items displayed throughout her home. You could find lace runners on the dining room table, on the buffet and on the tops of nightstands and dressers in the bedrooms. She would often starch and block lace doilies. Some of the doilies would be starched flat while others would be starched in a rippling design.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Great Gramma Mamie Jenkins And My Favorite Green Things - 2020 - 16" x 16" 

Great Gramma Mamie Jenkins And My Favorite GreenThings

Thinking about my fondest early green memories bring up thoughts of my Great Gramma Mamie Jenkins. Great Gramma Mamie was a powerfully strong force in my life as a young child. She had a sweet disposition in my eyes. She was very quiet and soft spoken. She was not one to be disrespected. In other words, she did not take any stuff from anybody. Great Gramma Mamie’s daughter was Eliza/Liza who was my grandmother and my mother Zoma’s mother. In my early days my great grandmother lived in a three story apartment home that also housed my grandmother’s store and our family members. My gramma Mamie and Eliza/Liza lived on the first floor, my family lived on the second floor and another family , The Cottons, lived on the third floor.  The Cotton family had 5 grown children who were living in other places. Four of the Cotton adult kids became god parents to me and my brother and sisters.

Periodically my Gramma Mamie would work in my grandmother’s store when needed. Her first love was working in her garden in the backyard beginning early spring and ending in late summer.  She would till the soil and plant her favorite vegetables: cabbage, collard greens, string beans, squash, cucumbers, and tomatoes. In our yard we also had grape vines, peach and apple trees. On some Sunday mornings Gramma Mamie would send us out to the garden to pick the green tomatoes for breakfast to be fried to accompany the grits, eggs, apples and the meat either ham, bacon, chicken, or fish. She would also make drop biscuits in the black cast iron skillet. When I close my eyes I can still hear the biscuits frying in the pan. Some of my favorite green memories were:

Fond memories of Gramma Mamie Jenkin’s backyard garden

Snapping green beans and green peas and picking collard, mustard, and kale greens

Fried green tomatoes for breakfast

Celery, Brussel sprouts

Climbing the trees in the backyard to get green and red tomatoes

Avocados for my guacamole dip

Green salad

Spinach

Green jello, Kool-Aid and squirt soda

My favorite green car coat(I still have it)

My first car, a green Dodge Dart with a stick on the floor

My favorite pleather (vinyl and leather mixed) 2-piece suit from Bamberger’s in Newark, New Jersey

My asparagus-colored painted living room and avocado accent wall in my dining room

Caring for my many house plants

My freshly cut lawn and of course MONEY!

These are just some of my favorite green things!!!!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Halloweenie - 2019 - 22" x 22" 

Halloweenie (Halloween Old School Style)

As a youngster during the late 1950’s and 1960’s, I always looked forward to the special occasion days or holidays as most kids did. One special occasion day that I loved was HALLOWEEN! It was a family affair, mommy, daddy, my brother Tom, my sisters Mona and Michelle and me. It was truly a group effort. Mommy was an awesome seamstress/tailor. There was no costume that she could not make! Her sewing abilities, creativity and fashion sense was on point. I was good at Art, Michelle was good at make-up and hair styles, Tom was in charge of logistics and Mona, the youngest was the assistant for everybody.

The Halloween day routine was as follows:

Go to school,

Have Halloween parties or dances at school

Leave school and run as fast as possible to get home to prepare for the infamous “Trick or Treat “ night. When we got home, we completed our homework, ate dinner and waited patiently with baited breath for the arrival of the man of the hour… Daddy the Halloween chauffeur! After he ate his dinner and watched the millionth episode of some western show, we were ready to go!

Mommy would distribute pillow cases to everyone to hold the nights goodie hall. Our family had a station wagon. Daddy always allowed us to bring a couple of friends along on our Trick or Treat journey. Our journey would usually be about  a 30 minute drive from home to the wealthy neighborhoods. My dad would always drop us off at the beginning of a block and pick us up at the block’s end.  Mommy would walk with us to each house. Almost all the homes we went to were highly decorated inside and out with lighted walkways and trees, pumpkins, ghosts, goblins, bats, witches, gigantic spider-webs with spiders, life sized mummies and Frankenstein. We would ring the doorbell, the door would open, and in unison we would loudly scream “TRICK or TREAT”!. Some of the home occupants would be fully costumed with candies and fruits in hand.  Others would have a Halloween pumpkin decorated bucket filled with loose change and all you had to do was stick your hand in the bucket and grab as many coins that you could.

After Trick or Treating for 2 – 2 ½ hours we were done, tired and ready to go home.

When we got home mom would inspect all pillow cases. We had to throw out all fruits, unwrapped cookies, cakes and candies. Every Halloween there were always warnings about people putting pins, razor blades or other sharp objects in fruits, unwrapped cookies, cakes and candies. We would count our money haul and give it to mommy for safe keeping.

The Halloween candy haul was always great, a standard sized pillowcase full with goodies: Good and Plenty Candy, Bazooka and Super Bubble Bubble Gum, Candy Lipstick, Hersey Bars, Taffy, Halloween Corn, Squirrel Nuts, Atomic Fireball Jawbreakers, Dum Dum Lollipops, Candy Necklaces, Chuckles, M&M’S and the list goes on.

As years past and we got older we did not participate in the practice of Trick or Treat. Our Halloween celebrations wearing costumes over the years went from the streets to celebrating at parties and other venues. When I began my teaching career, all the schools that I worked in celebrated Halloween with either an all-school costumed dance or individual classroom parties. In the spirit of Halloween, I would always decorate the building and wear a costume.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Hope And Joy - 2020 - 14" x 11" 

Hope And Joy

I was inspired to create “Hope and Joy.” I thought about the time when one of my dear Sisterfriends, Debra was diagnosed with Cancer, my spirits were down. I decided to embrace a positive attitude about the situation and “Keep Hope and Joy Alive”! The use of pink in the artwork is used to symbolize and highlight breast cancer awareness and programs. I am hoping for a cure and joyful for those who are fighting this disease, have “rung the bell” and achieved the status of being Cancer-free, “Keep Hope and Joy Alive “! Many of my dear friends and relatives have fought the Cancer fight and been victorious! “Keep Hope and Joy Alive”! They are survivors! I celebrate you and your struggle. “Keep Hope and Joy Alive”! Some are fighting this fight for the first time. “Keep Hope and Joy Alive”! Some of my friends and relatives have achieved the status of being Cancer-Free, I celebrate you: Debra, Joyce, Connie, Felicia, Diana, Marsha, LaVerne, Sharon, Alphine, Norine, Vanessa, Jasmine, Amafujo, Juanita and LaVeeda! “Keep Hope and Joy Alive”! I continue to remember and pray for family members and friends who lost their battle against Cancer. I have lost my grandmother, Mom, and brother to this disease. I am still praying and keeping “Hope and Joy Alive” for the day when a cure is found for Cancer!

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

How Does My Garden Grow? - 2021 - 15" x 15" 

How Does My Garden Grow?

“My garden is beautiful. It is filled with colorful flowers and shrubs. It is filled with the beautiful side of life: a simple smile, a mild hello, a minute to listen, a time to love, a time to be peaceful, a time to grow, a time to set myself down and get a hold of myself”. I’m okay with all the seasons. The two that I love the best are Spring and Summer. I begin to get excited about these two seasons in April. In my mind I think about what type of garden look am I trying to achieve. What type of feeling am I trying to create? What is my color scheme? Generally, I love outdoor and indoor plants. Flowering plants for outside and a variety of green plants for the inside. Sometimes I feel like a flowering and plant Goddess.

In Roman mythology Flora is the Goddess of flowering plants. The name Flora comes from the Latin word Flos which means flower,. She is also associated with the coming of Spring. She was always depicted wearing light clothing and carrying a bouquet of flowers. The Roman Empire also held a festival for several days to celebrate Flora. Flora was highly regarded and loved by the Roman Empire.

Every Spring I plant flowering plants in front of my home. Whenever I am out and about and return home, it is such a beautiful feeling to be greeted by lovely flowers and a well-manicured lawn. Some warm days I sit on my porch and just admire the beauty of my flower garden. Inside my home I have numerous green plants of different varieties and fresh cut flowers from my garden. Outside or inside plants give me a feeling of peace, joy and happiness! What does your garden grow?

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

I Am Surrounded by Sister Mermaid Spirits of Protection, Praise, Power, Possibilities, Peace, Purpose, Prosperity, Perfection and Passion - 2024

“In a ocean full of fish be a mermaid. Swim fast, wear a crown and dream big”

Author Unknown

“I Am Surrounded By, Sister Mermaid Spirits of Protection, Praise, Power, Possibilities, Peace, Purpose, Prosperity, Perfection, and Passion”

This artwork is dedicated to all my “Sister Mermaids” and “Brother Mermen,” who are my lifelines as I continue to live my artistic truth. I am so blessed to be surrounded by so many dynamic, talented, kind, earthly, “Sister Mermaids”. Many of the characteristics associated with mythical mermaids can be found among my “Sister Mermaids”: beauty, grace, independence, style, strength, headstrong, in control, wisdom, love and being their own person. “Mythical Mermaids” navigate and control the seas while my “Sister Mermaids” control all things human and above ground. 

 Some mermaid folklore is usually associated with disasters and devastation or kind, loving and benevolent acts. My “Sister Mermaids” are of the kind, loving, benevolent type. “Mythical Mermaids” and “Sister Mermaids” often have to swim against the tides and strong currents of life. As stated by Anais Nin, “I must be a mermaid; therefore, I have no fear of shallow living”.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2024

I Feel Pretty / It's Okay to Be Different - 2021 - 22" x 22" 

I Feel Pretty/It’s Okay To Be Different

I have always admired people who marched to the beat of their own drum. My mom, Zoma Terrell, always prided herself at being her own person. She did not look to others for certification on her dress, style, demeanor, attitude, philosophy on life, or acceptance. Many people admired her. I would often hear people say “I want to be just like Zoma.” Many people admired her grace and style. She always taught us to not let others define who we are and to be proud of ourselves.

As a child growing up the thoughts were that you should be able to fit in with different groups easily. But that was not true. Even today some people form cliques to keep others out of their group because they feel that a particular person does not measure up. For some people, being a part of a group is essential. The group leader with the help of the members usually decides who they want in their group. The group may feel that a person is not cool enough, not pretty enough, their economic status is not monetarily high enough or a person belongs to a class of the wrong people. I have always marched to my own drum. Never wanting to be a wanna be. Never wanting to disassociate myself from others because of different isms. I have always enjoyed being my creatively authentic self. I never put people down because of their differences. I embraced the differences.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

In Homage to Mami Wata - 2024

In Homage to Mami Wata

In my reading and researching about mermaid folklore, I learned that the mystical and magical Mami Wata, an African water deity, a water spirit, is probably the most famous mermaid. Her name is translated into “Mother of the Water.” As a mermaid she is usually depicted as a mermaid-like figure with a woman’s upper body and the lower body is a fish tail or serpent. Sometimes she may appear as a full human being. 

She has thick black hair that is bushy or straight and is usually seen with snakes surrounding her body. Some consider her as a Snake Charmer.  One snake is positioned with its head between her breasts. Mami Wata is often visually represented combing her thick hair with a mirror in hand and beads and baubles surrounding her neck and wrists.

Mami Wata is worshipped, revered, and celebrated throughout much of Africa. She, is considered to be beautiful, very powerful, dangerous, protective, seductive, and a healer. Her powers can bring good fortune or mass destruction.

In 2009 I got an opportunity to view an exhibit titled “Mami Wata: Arts for Water Spirits in Africa and its Diasporas” at the National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C. This was a traveling exhibit that began in California at the Fowler Museum at UCLA in 2008.  The subject of Mami Wata has been featured in books, film, television shows, poetry, music, paintings, and sculptures.

It is said that Mami Wata often kidnaps people while they are swimming or boating and takes them to her underwater home. Some are returned, back to their place of kidnapping while others are remanded to the deep underwaters. Those that are returned are often described as visibly changed.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2024

In Honor Of All Beautiful, Bold and Bodacious Girls and Women Who Are Wearing Their Alopecia Proudly! - 2020 - 22" x 22"

In Honor of All Beautiful, Bold and Bodacious Girls and Woman Who Wear Their Alopecia Proudly

In the past and presently I have friends who have different types of hair loss events, alopecia, scalp stress from wearing braids that are braided to tight and after effects of chemo therapy or other medicines and drugs. Growing hair was an issue for many. The thoughts and conversations were mostly about – nappy or straight hair, short or long hair, hair or no hair, wig or no wig and good hair vs bad hair. It has always been important to me and many of my friends how are hair looked. Always searching for that perfect hair-do while using all kinds of hair treatments on our hair. We sometimes unknowingly killed our own hair with the millions of hair products and hair processes. Comedian Chris Rock’s Chris Rock Productions even produced a documentary film titled “Good Hair”. The focus of the film were the issues and relationships that Black women have with their hair. While we are trying to do our do, we have other girls and women out there who are having a medical loss of hair event. These women in the past would often cover their bald heads with wigs, turbans, or other types of hair coverings. In the past that thinking was widely subscribed to. Fast forward 2020… A renewal of pride in natural hair wearing has emerged. Perms, hair extensions, and wigs in some circles have been pushed back to second place. Baldness for whatever reason is now accepted and admired  by many. Bald is beautiful!  I have a college classmate who is bald and her look is simply stunning. She wore a wig for many years.

On January 16, 2020 Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley in a video posted by “The Root” revealed that she is bald and talked about her struggles with alopecia. Her revelation was very touching. Alopecia is a disease that causes your hair to fall out from the scalp and any other parts of the body that holds hair. There are approximately 6.8 million people in the United States who suffer from this condition. As stated by Congresswoman Pressley in one of her speeches about alopecia “It’s about self-agency, it’s about power, it’s about acceptance”. Whatever your real hair truth is embrace it and know that you are beautiful”!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

In Honor of Mermaid Splendor - 2024

“The ocean makes me feel so small, and it makes me put my whole life into perspectives.”

Author - Beyonce

In Honor of Mermaid Splendor

Mermaids are considered, to be folklore, mystical, mythical, magical, beautiful, strong, powerful, seductive, and alluring. Mermaids are also said to be kind and helpful or devastatingly destructive. They are often described as magical aquatic creatures who have a human head and torso and a fish’s tail for the trunk instead of legs. I enjoy seeing depictions of mermaids, with their flowing hair, iridescent and glittery trunk scales, beads and necklaces and beautifully colorful decorated bras. The talk of mermaids can be traced all the way back to 1000 BC.  Also, mermen have been mentioned. Over the years there have been many mermaid sightings but none documented. I love the mystique associated with mermaids. There have been many films, articles, books and art exhibits about them. Some that I have seen are:

1984 – Splash

1989 – The Little Mermaid /animated

2009 – National Museum of African Art: “Mami Wata: Arts for Water Spirits in Africa and it’s Diasporas”

2011 – Pirates of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

2020 – A Mermaid in Paris

2023 – The Little Mermaid (starring the first African – American Little Mermaid – Halle Bailey

2023 – MerPeople/Netflix Series

2024 – National Geographic – “WHEN WE BREATHED IN WATER” – February 8, 2024

There are mermaid organizations, clubs, Facebook groups, festivals, careers in mermaid showmanship, art exhibits of mermaid beauty and mystique and mermaid celebrations worldwide. I believe that there is a little bit of mermaid/merman in all of us. Stand tall, radiate positive vibes, stay strong and beautiful and embrace your inner mermaid. Valerie Eve encourages us to “practice the mermaid vibes. The essence of mermaid vibes is about embracing and living your truth”.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2024

In Honor Of The Spirits Of My Heavenly Sheroes - 2020 - 17" x 17" 

In Honor of the Spirits of My Heavenly Sheroes

Merriam-Webster defines a Shero as “a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities, a heroine”. There have been many sheroes in my life. Sheroes that I have known personally and sheroes who I have learned about on the national and international stage. These sheroes have inspired me, mentored me, and have made a profound impact on my life. Their constant display of commitment to courage, a mission, intellectual ability, and examples of humanity and humility. Some are still active sheroes in my life while others have passed on to the heavenly realm. To my earthly sheroes I appreciate all the love, and wisdom that you share with me each day. To my heavenly sheroes, I honor you for your wisdom, grace, honesty, dignity, knowledge, strength, love, power, and encouragement.

Heavenly Sheroes

Mrs. Zoma Terrell – Mother, Role Model, Mentor, Supporter, Number 1 Cheerleader

Dr. Tritobia Benjamin – Art Historian/Professor/Mentor

Ms. Judith Blalock – Eighth Grade Science Teacher

Mrs. Martha G. Boxley – Colleague/Teacher/Friend

Mrs. Bernice Brown – Mentor/Role Model

Mrs. Louise Buckner – Colleague/Teacher/Supervisor

Mrs. Mattie Colson – Colleague/Teacher/Role Model/Friend

Mrs. Ethel Cotton – Mentor/Role Model

Mrs. Willie B. Friday – Colleague/Teacher/Role Model

Mrs. Corridean Green – Aunt/Mentor

Mrs. Rebecca R. Hawkins – Colleague/Role Model Mentor/Friend

Mrs. Alma Hogan – Godmother/Role Model

Mrs. Pearl Hillman – Sunday School Teacher/Role Model

Mrs. Minnie Holcomb – Mentor, Role Model/Teacher/Friend

Mrs. Rose Jackson - Grandmother

Mrs. Mamie Jenkins – Great Grandmother/Mentor/Role Model

Mrs. Clementine King – Colleague/Mentor/Role Model/Friend

Mrs. Grace Littlejohn – Colleague/Mentor/Role Model

Mrs. Mildred Malcolm – Colleague/Mentor/Role Model

Mrs. Betty Doreatha Massenburg – Mentor/Role Model/History Maker/ Entrepreneur/Friend

Mrs. Eliza Maxwell – Grandmother/Mentor/Role Model/Entrepreneur

Mrs. Margaret W. Maxwell – Aunt/Mentor/Role Model

Mrs. Rowene D. Morgan – Colleague/Mentor/Role Model/Friend

Mrs. Mildred Moore – Entrepreneur/Role model

Dr. Thelma R. Newman – Teacher/Art Administrator/Role Model

Mrs. Edna Polk – Teacher/Role Model

Ms. Odessa Robinson – Sixth Grade Teacher/Role Model

Mrs. Sarah Smalls – Entrepreneur/Role Model/Friend

Dr. Myra L. Kearse-Smith – Family Physician/Mentor/Role Model/Friend

Mrs. Imogene Taylor – Colleague/Teacher/Role Model/Friend

Ms. Ruby Thornton – Colleague/Mentor/Role model/Friend

Author- Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

In My Regal Peacefulness - 2021 - 18" x 18"

In My Regal Peacefulness

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced”

Author, James Baldwin

Quiet times are very important times for me. They are the times when I need to experience inner peace. As hectic, chaotic, toxic, and uncertain that this world has become it is now important more than ever to try to distress as much as possible. It has become very important to arm ourselves with alternative and healthy ways to practice obtaining inner peace. We must “take the stress out of our mess”.

There are many ways to experience inner peace on a regular time schedule. This schedule must be identified by us, regulated by us, and implemented by us. Some of us may take nature walks, practice our favorite hobby, or participate in a meaningful activity that helps us to promote relaxation.  As for me, it is sitting in a designated peaceful space either indoors or outdoors, in uninterrupted silence, meditating.

We must strive to find our quiet place to help us focus totally on ourselves. The Roman Emperor, Marcus Aurelius Antonius said “He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the world” Finding your inner peace may help you to find a bit of happiness. This is not a one size fits all experience. It is important to address the stress in our lives in a way that is healthy and meaningful. We must learn to love ourselves better, and pay attention to physical, emotional, and mental selves.

According to American Yoga Guru Swami Kriyananda (J. Donald Walters), “You will find peace not by trying to escape your problems, but by confronting them courageously. You will find peace not in denial, but in victory.”

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

It's An Autumnal Equinox Kind Of Thing - 2022 - 18" x 18" 

It’s An Autumnal Equinox Kind Of Thing

The beginning of the Autumn season usually begins around September 22 in the northern hemisphere and around March 20th in the southern hemisphere. Autumn is the season for many celebrations and holidays – Halloween, Hispanic Heritage Month, Dia De Los Muertos, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Columbus Day, Veteran ‘s Day, All Saints and All Souls Day, Indigenous Peoples Day and Thanksgiving. It is the season where time is turned back by one hour. It gets darker earlier. Everyone is encouraged to check the batteries in their smoke alarms.

Autumn for me has always been my signal for the official end to summer, although there have been some early fall days that mimic summer. I begin to start putting away my summer clothes to make room for my Fall apparel. My beautiful flowers outside and some of my shrubs are beginning to wilt and die. The visiting summer butterflies, bees, and birds have either completed their life cycle or gone to a warmer place. Nuts from the trees are beginning to fall on the ground. I am seeing many squirrels running about the neighborhood gathering nuts for the winter. The trees are beginning to turn from shades of green to shades of red, orange, yellow and brown. The colored beauty of the trees together is an example of the awesomeness of nature.

Leaves are falling from the trees on to cars, lawns, playgrounds, and streets. Kids are having fun playing in mounds of leaves. Residents are raking and bagging leaves up for the city pick-up. People are decorating their homes inside and outside with fall colors, multi-colored mums, gourds, winter cabbage, holiday decorations, and fall door wreaths. When I taught Art two of my Autumn projects with the students were Leaf Etchings using real leaves and Sponge prints using fall colors.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Jersey Winters - 2019 - 14 -1/2" x 18" 

Jersey Winter Memories

I can remember the snow falls, snow and ice storms during the 1950’s and 1960’s in my hometown, Vauxhall, New Jersey. Sometimes the snow event was a light dusting while other times the snowfall was reported in feet. During those times we would always play in the snow, pull our sleds, and have snowball fights. We would also shovelled snow for free or pay.

When I was little there was no such thing as four-wheel drive, snow, or radial tires. If you were lucky your family car had chains on all four tires. There times when you could not drive your car during severe snow events unless all tires had chains. The first ice or snowstorm always produced beautiful snow/ice scenes around our town. You could look outside your home window and see cars covered or partially covered with snow and ice, beautiful ice upped and snow laden tree branches, snow covered kids pulling their sleds, people walking in the streets because the sidewalks had not been cleared, people and cars sliding on the icy streets, and people digging out.

The winters were very cold. At the sign of an impending storm, I would always add a special request in my nightly prayers, especially on school nights for school cancellation. Sometimes my prayers would be answered and sometimes not. I can remember going to school in knee deep snow. On many occasions me and my classmates would have to walk in the streets because sidewalks had not been shoveled.

On snowy no-school days we would play in the snow, visit our friends if the streets were passable or just have fun at home. Mom always made the best breakfasts. She would make hot chocolate with real chocolate and marshmallows. We would eat split English muffins with melted cheese and bacon and homemade applesauce. That was always real, real good! It would hit the hunger spot every time in a most satisfying way. Mom would always have chores for us to do. Upon completion of our chores my brother, sisters and myself would either play, listen to the radio, look at tv, play the victrola, and dance. We also loved to sing and play imaginary instruments. Two of our favorite musicians/musical groups during that time were Ray Charles and the jazz trio, Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross. Our dad was their number 1 fan. When we performed at home my brother Tom was Ray Charles, dark glasses and all and my sisters and I were the Raylettes. We also did an awesome imitation of Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross’s song, “Cloudburst” which was released in 1960. #I Loved Jersey Winters!

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Jones - 2020 - 18" x 18" 

Jones

Jones is the name that I lovingly call my sister from another mother, Bronwyn Jones Smalley. We have been like family for over 49 years. She is a true friend. When both of us met we were Art teachers in the District of Columbia Public Schools and were both working on obtaining Masters degrees from Howard University’s College of Fine Arts. Through our numerous conversations in class, we realized that we had so many things in common. Bronwyn was an art teacher, artist, jewelry maker, clothing designer and seamstress. My mom was a creative clothing designer and seamstress. They bonded through their love of designing and sewing. Bronwyn became a beloved member of my family and I a member of hers. While completing my Master’s program I was appointed an assistant principal. Bronwyn’s mother who was a principal always offered me words of encouragement and support. We bonded through education and school administration.

Bronwyn is very talented. Her artwork and fashion designs of the past were always exciting, innovative, and creative. Presently she is designing metal jewelry. Her designs are uniquely beautiful. The selections of metals and the incorporation of other stones within jewelry pieces is beautiful.

Bronwyn and I often visited each other’s parents’ homes in Columbia, Maryland and South Plainfield, New Jersey. We have shared so many fun and wonderful memories.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Judith Belock - 2018 - 18" x 12" 

Judith Belock

In 1965 Judith H. Belock was my eighth grade  Science teacher at Burnet Junior High School in Union, New Jersey. I enjoyed her class immensely. She brought Science to life! I learned a lot about science and science careers. Growing up I always wanted to be an artist or an art teacher. After being in her class I also thought about being a scientist, doctor, or a science researcher. At the end of the school year, I received a final grade of “A “in science. During my student-teacher conference on April 15, 1965, Mrs. Belock spoke with me about my classwork, participation, and end of the year science project. I always completed my homework assignments and other science projects ahead of the due dates. Before our conference ended Mrs. Belock gave me a packet of extra credit projects. When I got home that day I opened the packet to look at the extra credit work and also found a separate envelope addressed to me. I opened it and read it. It was a very nice note. I can remember smiling and feeling really good!

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Katherine/Mae - 2018 - 14" x 11" 

Katherine/Mae

Katherine/Mae is dedicated to the late Katherine Johnson (1918 – 2020), Mathematician at NASA and Mae Jemison, Engineer, Physician, and former NASA astronaut. The calculations of orbital mechanics of Katherine Johnson were critical to the success of the first and subsequent US crewed spaceflights. Her calculations made it possible for that first American astronaut team to make a successful journey into space. She was a master of complex manual calculations. She is one of the first African-American woman to work at NASA as a scientist. In 2015 President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Honor. In 2016 her career and the careers of two of her colleagues, Dorothy Vaughn (1910 – 2008) and Mary Jackson (1921 – 2005) were highlighted in the film “Hidden Figures”. These women along with a group of women were a part of NASA’s team of “Human Computers.” These women calculated by hand the complex equations that allowed astronauts to travel safely into outer space. In June 2021 the Fairfax County schoolboard voted unanimously to change the name of The Sidney Lanier Middle School to the Katherine Johnson Middle School. In 2019 Katherine Johnson was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. On February 24, 2020 Katherine Johnson passed away at the age of 101.

Mae Jemison is a physician, engineer, educator, lecturer, dancer, peace corps volunteer, founder, and president of two technology companies and the first African-American woman to travel into space. In 1987 Mae Jemison joined the astronaut corps at NASA Kennedy Space Flight Center in Florida. In 1992 she traveled into space on the Space Shuttle Endeavor for eight days, September 12 – 20, 1992. Dr. Jemison performed duties as a Mission Specialist during the flight. During her flight Dr. Jemison logged 190 hours, 30 minutes and 23 seconds in space and orbited the earth 127 times. In 2013 The Huntsville School Board in Huntsville, Alabama approved the renaming of J.O. Johnson High School to Mae Jemison High School. The school was rebuilt and opened in 2016.

Author Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

KDH - 2020 - 15" x 15" 

KDH

Kamala Devi Harris has stated publicly on many occasions, “My mother would look at me and say, Kamala you may be the first to do many things but make sure you are not the last”.

“KDH” is a creative tribute to our Madame Vice-President of the United States of America, Kamala Devi Harris. She is a graduate of Howard University and the University of California, Hastings College of Law. Throughout her political career Madame Vice-President has been putting her mother’s words into action. K-Kamala, D-Devi, H-Harris was born on October 20, 1964 to Shyamala Gopalan and Donald J. Harris in Oakland, California. Since her political beginnings Madame Vice President has held many positions that have prepared her for her latest political achievement, Vice-President of the United States of America, the highest ranking female in U.S. History. In the past she has served in the capacity of Deputy District Attorney, District Attorney, Attorney General, and U.S. Senator. Madame Vice-President Harris has made history on many fronts as the result of her election as the 49th Vice-President. She is the first woman ever to be elected as Vice-president, first African-American to serve as Vice-President and the first South Asian/Jamaican to be elected Vice-President. HU U-Know

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Lemonia The Butterfly Princess - 2021 - 14 -1/2" x 14"

Lemonia The Butterfly Keeper

“Open your heart and mind like the wings of a butterfly. See then how high you can fly”

Author Zeenat Aman

I love butterflies, their colors, their designs, and the aerodynamically body structure that allows them to fly graciously and land as if on a bed of cotton. During my childhood, my friends and I would spend some of our lazy spring and summer weekends trying to catch butterflies. During the months of April through September many butterflies visit my front yard. I often see many Easter Tiger Swallowtail butterflies. They are the state of Virginia’s state insect. They are beautiful. On many occasions I have had the opportunity to sneak up on them and take their picture.

As the butterfly season comes to an end and the seasons of fall and winter begin, I think about how humans are sometimes like the butterfly. We both start out as eggs and go through a growth cycle and emerge from our gestation process as beautiful babies and butterflies. As the weather changes from summer to fall to winter, we begin to embrace the change in our bodies and habits. Like the caterpillar who has been in the cocoon and we have been inside our homes, we must bust loose from the cold of winter and begin to ready ourselves for the warmth of spring and summer. The famous poet Maya Angelou states “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty”.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Madame Josephine - 2020 - 15" x 18" 

Madame Josephine

I first learned about Josephine Baker while reading a July 1964 issue of Ebony magazine. The article was titled “Josephine Baker’s Fabulous Wardrobe”. She was pictured on the front cover. The article featured photographs of Josephine Baker wearing some of her elaborate costumes that she was well-known for. Her exotic wardrobe featured : bejeweled costumes, furs,  stunning turbans, beautiful gowns,  elaborate headdresses that were adorned with jewels and feathers and fabulous jewelry. I was so fascinated by the article that I went to the library to learn more about her.

She was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. Ms. Baker was a singer, dancer, and actress. She appeared with touring groups throughout the United States. Ms. Baker was fed up with the segregation and racism that she was experiencing in the United States and fled to France in the 1930” s.  Whenever Ms. Baker appeared in the United States she refused to perform for segregated audiences.

 She became a legal resident of France in 1937 after she married her husband Jean Lion. She adopted 11 children of different races and nationalities. The French people raved about her, loved her, and celebrated her. In some circles she was known as “The Black Venus.” She became famous for her erotic dance routines. One of which she performed in a banana skirt. In many early performances she performed almost nude. She joined the French Resistance and was a spy in WWII and was awarded after the war with “Resistance Medal.” Upon her death she received the one of the highest honors in France to be buried in the Pantheon in Paris. Ms. Baker is the first African-American woman and the 6th woman to be buried there. 

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Memories of Dr. Myra Lyles Smith Kearse, Physician, Community Leader - 2022 - 21" x 17"

Memories of Dr. Myra Lyles Smith Kearse

I grew up in Vauxhall, New Jersey. I was very active, running, jumping, playing, and some of my favorites, climbing trees and hanging upside down from the tree limbs. My earliest remembrance of Dr. Smith was when I was six years old and my parents brought me to her because of a ping pong size lump on the front of my thigh. I told her that I thought that a green bug bit me. I remember her saying that the lump was probably infected and she would have to lance it. I do remember her whispering something in my dad’s ear. Years later she told me that she told my dad that he was going to have to hold me down while she cut the lump. She used no anesthetic. When she did I was screaming my head off and I begin to call her the N-word several times. After she cleaned the wound, I received several stiches. The remnants of the scar is still visible.

Dr. Smith was a great physician. She was my primary care physician until I went to college. She was my mentor. I would visit her at different times when I was not ill. She gave me a small job completing different tasks and running errands for her. During our non-medical visits, she would talk about her life.

She was the first African-American female doctor to practice in our town in 1938. She had her office in the basement of her home. She was the only graduating female member of the Howard University medical class of 1925. She had a photograph of her graduating class that she proudly hung in the patient waiting area of her office. She had long hair when she entered medical school but had to cut her hair in a boyish bob style. Not only was she a physician, but she was an inventor and a community leader. She held a patent on a pocket calendar device that helped track the menstrual cycle. Her husband, Robert Freeman Kearse was the first African-American Post Master of our town. Her daughter Amalya Lyle Kearse is a retired Senior judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and was the first African-American woman to be short listed as a candidate for the office of Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States of America in 1981.

Dr Smith talked a lot about racial discrimination and the resistance of white people to black people. When we talked, she would always talk about her days at Howard University, learning more about Black people, their history, struggles and their significant contributions to the world. Dr. Smith was always adamant about the importance of doing your best in school and not forgetting where you came from. She was very proud of her membership in the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority which she loved so dearly.

When the time came for me to make my college choice decision she would always weave Howard University into our talks. When my older brother Tom decided on Howard University as his college choice my parents and Dr. Smith were so elated. When I expressed my decision to attend Howard University to my dad he felt that as a girl I needed to attend a college or university closer to home. My feelings were hurt. I talked to Dr. Smith about my college selection she said that she would talk to my dad. She met with him on three separate occasions. He finally consented to let me go. After graduating from Howard University I decided to stay in Washington, D.C. permanently. She visited me in Washington, D.C. on three occasions. Whenever I visited my parents in New Jersey I always stopped by to see Dr. Smith. She died on February 14, 1982.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Memories of F.A.C.E.S. (Festivals, Always Bus Trips and Amusement Parks, Circus/Carnivals, Events and Entertainment Venues, and State Fairs) - 2019 - 18" x 18" 

Memories of F.A.C.E.S. (Festivals, Always Bus Trips and Amusement Parks, Circus/Carnivals, Events, Entertainment Venues and State Fairs)

I can strongly say that my parents and grandparents always had places for us to go to, interesting people to meet, things to do and gave us many opportunities to make lasting memories. My grandmother sponsored many bus trips to Atlantic City. Belmar Beach, Barnum and Bailey Circus, Asbury Park, Rockaway Beach, 7 Rocks Beach, Chesquake Park, Rye beach, Toronto and Quebec, Canada. My mom always took us and some of our friends to concerts, plays, movies, and New York City to see the World’s Fair and The Rockettes and other culturally stimulating events. As a family we would attend the yearly Italian Festival in our town. The festival featured games, food, rides, side show features – The lady in the Iron Lung, EEKA– the lady who ate snakes, and magicians. We had many picnics at church, people’s homes, Old Cider Mill Picnic, Echo lake Park, and Rahway Park. We attended many events, concerts and plays at Symphony Hall, Robert Treat Hotel, The RKO Theatre in Newark , New Jersey for the Motown Review Shoes, The Terrace Ballroom, Crystal Ballroom and The Brooklyn Fox in Brooklyn, New York. The Terrace Ballroom and the Crystal Ballroom were the sites for many dances, weddings, Proms, and Cotillions.

My friends and I were dancing partying teenagers. In 1967 my brother, myself and 8 of our friends would attend a taped weekly teen dance show for Channel 47 in Newark, New Jersey. The show was called Zacherley’s, Disc-O-Teen hosted by the ghoulish John Zacherley.

My brother, sister and I were members of a teen youth club in Newark, New Jersey  called The Junior Leagurers.  The Junior Leagurers provided tutoring, social activities, summer jobs, college scholarships, and mentors. As members became seniors their ending activity was a senior luncheon and a cotillion. I loved the cotillion. The participants had to attend etiquette and dance classes and work on a community project. We were assigned escorts who escorted the females into the ballroom and executed a flawless, escort dance routine and a routine with their assigned debutante. The most heart-warming part of the cotillion for me was the Father-Daughter dance. My dad was so handsome in his black tails, white shirt and white bowtie. We danced very well. It was memorable.

We went to many places for big fun back in the day. We would go to Olympic Amusement Park in Irvington, New Jersey. Olympic Park featured a hugh pool, roller coasters, Bumper Cars, Ferris Wheels, Games, The Whip and other rides. Periodically during the summer Olympic Park would have 10 Cent Day where admission and all rides were 10 cent all day.

 When we were very young my parents would take us to Fairy Land on route 22 in Springfield, New Jersey. At the entrance was a large replica of “the old woman who lived in a shoe.” Fairy Land had a beautiful carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a few other rides. The lighting in and around Fairy Land was so magical and beautiful. All the lights were white and multi-colored and constantly flickering. In November 2007 my brother who was battling cancer, was transferred to a hospice facility. Upon his arrival at the hospice home, he mentioned that the lighting display outside of flickering white and multi-colored lights reminded him of Fairy Land and he smiled the biggest smile.

As teenagers we would go to Bow craft on route 22 in Scotch Plains , New Jersey. It had archery, a miniature golf course, and rides appropriate for teenagers. At the end of every summer my grandmother would sponsor a trip to The New Jersey State Fair. The fair was always full of excitement: the sights, the sounds, the exhibits, the food and unforgettable smells of the animals on display.

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell  2023

Memories of Weddings Past - 2022 - 22" x 22" 

Memories Of Weddings Past

Memories of weddings and anniversary parties that I have attended in the past always bring a smile to my face. Thoughts of my participation in some and an invited guest in others bring back many memories. It was always real special when I was asked to be a participant, usually as a bridesmaid or a witness. I was a bridesmaid in four weddings – my sister Michelle Terrell-Long, cousin Diana Maxwell Williams, girlfriends Phyliss Massenburg Plummer and Stephanie Alexandria Glover McGee. I served in the capacity of witness for my dear friends Bronwyn and Booker Smalley and Laureen Smith and Charles Butler I was the MC for my sister Mona Terrell Wallace’s wedding and a receptionist/greeter at my brother friend Brian and Susan Green’s wedding. I attended numerous weddings over the years of dear friends as a guest: Darice and Julius Gamble, Minimah Bilal Shakur (my mom made Minimah’s wedding dress), Gwenyth Green Williams, Cindy and Damion Moore, Tasha Graves, Tanika Graves, Sandra and Warren Hodge, Marcia and Bertie Ray, Simone and Howard Luckey, Elianna Townsend, Garland Buckson Gregory, Billy and Gloria Allen, Daysha and Kevin Carter, Nikki and Stephorn Ray, Nicole and Darryl Green, Sharon and Quinton Pierson, and  Alexis and Robert White. The weddings were all beautiful and held at wonderful venues. The ceremonies were all very different and had many memorable moments. I can remember the color combinations and décor, the hors d oeuvres, drinks, entrances of the bridal party, music, dancing, Best woman and Best man toast, and of course catching the bridal bouquet and garter and watching the male who caught the garter place it on the thigh of the female who caught the bridal bouquet. I caught the bouquet once! Not to forget the first dance for the bride and groom, the in-laws dance and cutting the cake. Then my favorite time…Partying, Partying, Partying!!!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Minimah - 2019 - 15-1/2" x 15-1/2" 

Minimah and Sharon

I am from a small town in New Jersey called Vauxhall. Minimah and Sharon are from there too. I have been friends with them for over 60 years. We are like family! Sharon and I were in kindergarten together. Minimah was a couple of years older than us. We always hung out together. In my early years I remember her sweet grandmother Ms. Patty and her grandfather Mr. Johnson who drove a cab. Ms. Patty was so kind hearted. When we moved on to junior high and high school Mr. Johnson would periodically give us rides to school. He was a wild driver. Most of the time while riding in his station wagon cab we would cover our eyes and silently pray that we would get to school in one piece. As years moved on Sharon, Minimah and I went our separate ways but we kept in contact with each other and tried to visit each other when possible. Sharon moved to another town when we were in high school. Minimah graduated from high school and got married and I went off to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C. We had many memorable memories…school, hanging out at each other’s homes, The Dome and Cheetah clubs in New York City, hanging out in Brooklyn, New York, attending parties and concerts all over New Jersey, attending Sunday School and church at First Baptist, hanging out at the White Castle Restaurants and eating the 12 cent hamburgers, 15 cent fries and  15 cent drinks, parties in my parents basement, attending picnics, swimming in the summertime at Rahway pool, hanging out at The Jefferson Elementary School playground in the summers and attending Boys and Girls night at the school in the winters, and the many dance practice sessions on my parents enclosed porch. We always had big fun! Over the years we have always tried to support each other especially in times of importance. We always played together, partied together, cried together celebrated together and were available when needed no matter where we were geographically. To this day we still check on each other through text or phone calls. Great and true friendships are forever and we three will always be forever friends.

Author Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Ms. Africa (A - Alluring, F - Fabulous, R - Resourceful, I - Intelligent, C - Creative, A - Authentic) - 2021 - 15" x 15" 

Ms. Africa – A-Alluring, F - Fabulous, R - Resourceful, I - Intelligent, C - Creative, A - Authentic

Growing up I learned a lot about Africa from my parents and church. Our parents always involved us in activities that were family centered, cultural, afro-centered and provided us with experiences and opportunities to grow individually. I did not have the opportunity to learn a lot about Africa in my early school years. I attended secondary schools that were primarily Caucasian. I arrived at Howard University in 1969. The school population was predominately African-American. Black awareness, culture, the struggles of Black people, and learning to love and appreciate my Blackness was a number one priority for me along with getting my degree. Some of the classes that I took at Howard taught me so much more about the land, people, history, culture, religion, politics, and the arts. I took several African subject classes. One class was African Drumming and Dancing Group at Howard. Our instructor, Dr. Kojo Fosu Baiden was a professor in the College of Fine Arts. His class included lectures about Africa and the relationship of dance to African history. He taught us about the history of Africa through its music and dance. We learned about costumes and hairstyles. I got my first corn-rowed hairstyle while attending the class. We also learned numerous dances and their significance to the culture. As part of our class responsibility, we performed our dances at several elementary schools in Washington, D.C. For extra credit in the class myself and two other female students performed as dancers in a drama student’s senior thesis play at Ira Aldridge Theatre on the campus of Howard University.

In artistic tribute to the beautiful people, culture, resources, and countries of Africa I created Ms. Africa. The colors in this artwork are a combination of all the colors from the many flags of Africa.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Ms. Lil Blue Princess - 2020 - 20-1/2" x 14" 

Ms. Lil Blue Princess

When I was younger, I had dreams of being a princess like most young girls. Wearing a dress like Cinderella.  Being the belle of the ball. Walking graciously down a winding stairway while guests just oohed as I passed by. My princess gown had a skirt that had a huge crinoline under it. My imaginary dress was made from lace, satin, and tulle, with an embroidered hem. I wore a crown of diamonds, sapphire and pearls, beautiful elbow length satin gloves and glass slippers. I dreamt that I lived in a castle on the top of a high mountain. It had a moat. My bedroom was as large as two bedrooms and it had a fireplace. I slept in a bed made for a princess.

There were no African-American princesses on TV or in my world that I knew about when I was growing up. I was a little sad and blue because there were no Princesses of color that looked like me or you during my youth. Megan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is the United States first mixed-race princess.  She married Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, a member of the British royal family in 2018.

In 2009 Disney debuted its first African-American princess, Princess Tiana.  She appeared in an animated film titled “Princess and The Frog.”  

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Ms. Vote Ready - 2021 - 17-1/2" x 19" 

Ms. Vote Ready

My mom and dad would always talk about the importance of voting and voting rights. Mom would talk about the climate of voting and voting rights when she was a little girl growing up in Vauxhall, New Jersey. In her youth she said that there were times when White people and some African-Americans would come around during voting season to try to scare residents and discourage them not to vote. When they did go to vote they would go to the polling sites in small groups. Of course, as years passed and the voting climate was more tolerable, more people participated.  My parents made sure that when we turned 18, we registered to vote, kept our voting registration card in compliance and participated in the voting process. The first young person in my family who registered to vote was my brother Tom. When he turned 18. My parents were very proud. My mom and dad always voted in the minor and major elections in New Jersey. Because of their deaths in 1994 and 2007, my dad and brother never got a chance to vote in the two greatest elections of all time in 2008 and 2012. These elections were very historical. We the people, twice elected the first African-American  to the office of the  president of the United States of America…Barack Hussein Obama!!! Mom at the ages of 85 and 89 was right there voting along with her daughter Mona and granddaughter Zomona for both elections. After she voted that first Obama election, we talked. She talked about how proud she was that people of all races and economic backgrounds worked tirelessly together to make a dream of so many become true. The dream to finally elect a person of color to serve as president of the United States. She also mentioned the fact that her family never had the opportunity to be a part of this historical event. When she voted she felt that she was also voting for her deceased family members:

Grandmother – Mamie Jenkins

Mother – Eliza Maxwell

Husband – Thomas C. Terrell

Son – Thomas G. Terrell

Siblings - Sister – Corridean Green, Brother – O’Neil Maxwell, Brother – Frank H. Maxwell

In our many talks as various elections cycles approached, we always talked about importance of being Vote Ready:

Making sure you are registered and that you are voting compliant

Making sure you know the deadline dates if you must vote by absentee ballot

Making sure that you are aware of who and what you are voting for

Making sure you know your dates for the election cycle

Making sure you know your voting site

Making sure you have a voting plan

Get out to vote!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Norma - 2019 - 16" x 16" 

Norma

My cousin Norma is the best! She is very creative and artistically inclined. Separate and apart from her artistic talents, Norma is a master at graphic design, sewing and the craftsmanship of artistry in fashion designing. I have admired her artistic abilities as far back as I can remember. In my younger years we spent a lot of time together. I wanted to be a creative artist just like her. Norma always had that special creative touch that is evident in her work. Her creations and special artistic touches to garments and other clothing accessories set them apart from other clothing creations. Norma has always been a lover of Native American history, people, costume, jewelry, and art.

The name Norma is defined in the Urban Dictionary as “a rare jewel that is meant to be treasured. A person that only comes around once in a lifetime.” I am so honored to be her cousin. She is the reason and inspiration for some of my artistic and creative creations. Her encouragement, support, and artistic inputs to my many creative projects is invaluable!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Phyllis - 2021 - 13" x 18 - 1/2" 

Phyllis

“A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future, and accepts you just the way you are”

Author unknown

Phyllis and I met at Howard University in 1971. We were roommates in the Bethune Hall Dormitory. She was from Durham, North Carolina and I was from Vauxhall, New Jersey. Our boyfriends at that time were members of the Howard University Wrestling team. We attended many wrestling matches together to support and cheer our guys on.

As stated by Winnie the Pooh, “I knew when I met you an adventure was going to begin,” and for over fifty years we have been on a magnificent friendship journey! I am blessed to have Phyllis as my Sisterfriend. Over the years we have made so many meaningful memories. The road trips to North Carolina, Atlanta, and New Jersey, and our magnificent trip from San Diego, California to Durham, North Carolina, teaching me how to do sculptured nails, having her boyfriend, Artis try to teach me how to drive, which was hilarious, her mom’s southern cooking which was to die for, and being in your wedding. We attended many parties, picnics, events, weddings, funerals, and family activities together.

One of my fondest memories of our friendship was when our mothers met. Mom and I flew to Durham for Phyllis’s mother’s 80th birthday party. When they saw each other for the first time, their embrace was full of love and it touched our hearts. Phyllis and I had been trying to get our mothers to meet face to face for years. Seeing them together was magical! Mom stayed with Phyllis’s mom during the weekend. Too see the two of them together was like seeing two sisters catching up for old times sake. Observing the two of them together looked so much like the friendship that Phyllis and I share.

 While at Howard, Phyllis was a member of the Howard University Marching Band. She was an outstanding majorette. During one of Howard University’s Homecoming football half-time shows the band performed and Phyllis executed  a routine twirling with the fire baton. The crowd went wild.

We have laughed together, cried together, picked up the pieces of our life’s issues together, worshipped together, and supported each other when we needed too. Thanking God for blessing me with such a wonderful friend and our magnificent friendship journey!! Next stop………

“A sweet friendship refreshes the soul”

Proverbs 27:19

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Purpletta - 2018 - 14" x 11" 

Purpletta

The color purple has appeared many times in my life. In elementary school the king and queen in school activities were always wearing a purple cape. The Easter plays at church always featured Easter lilies in purple foil covered pots with large purple bows lining the pulpit. The Easter crosses inside and outside the church were and still are shrouded in purple cloth at Eastertime.

Historically the color purple represents wealth, royalty, nobility, power, magic, and mystery. Some roman emperors, kings and queens, forbade anyone except close members of the royal families to wear purple. Magicians at magic shows always wore black capes lined in purple velvet.

For my 31st birthday in 1982 my brother Tom gave me a copy of the book “The Color Purple”, by Alice Walker. In December of 1985, as a pre-Christmas gift my brother took me to a special screening and discussion of the movie “The Color Purple. It was great! In the movie the color purple represents all the good things that are in this world. The author of the book “The Color Purple”, Alice Walker, states that “I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don’t notice it".

The color purple appears prominently in the design of the “Purple Heart” medal that is awarded to servicemen who are wounded or killed while serving.

The color purple that I relate to and person that I remember who revered and rocked the color to most of the end of his lifetime and beyond is PRINCE! Prince’s half sister Sharon Nelson said “Prince loved the color purple because it represented royalty” and that the color purple made him feel Princely”. How could you ever forget the movie “Purple Rain”, which won the Oscar in 1984 for “Best Original Song Score”. How could you ever forget the king of purple everything: purple set designs, the color purple infused in the lighting designs, purple instruments and of course the wardrobes. I had the honor in 1984 of serving as a chaperone to take 30 District of Columbia Public Schools students who had achieved perfect attendance or all “A’s” during that schoolyear to the “Purple Rain Tour” concert at the Capital Centre in Landover, Maryland. I can still remember the purple enhanced stage, purple lights and wardrobe when he sang and did his Prince dance routine. The crowd went crazy! Prince ended the concert singing “Purple Rain.” Everybody was out of their seats, arms raised and swaying back and forth and singing along with Prince! It was an awesome event.

In honor of Prince and his association with purple The Pantone Color Institute created a special purple color in his honor for hair coloring. My brother had the opportunity to interviewed Prince for BET Magazine at his home and studio, Paisley Park in Minneapolis, Minnesota. My cousin Toi was a serious “Princite” back in the day. She wore a lace and purple ensemble to her prom.

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Queen Laureen - 2020 - 14 -1/2" x 15" 

Queen Laureen

“I’m not afraid to use my voice, I’m not afraid to be uniquely me, I ‘m not afraid to stand alone, and I’m not afraid to step outside of my comfort zone. I’m a Black Queen that doesn’t make excuses, I find solutions. I won’t apologize for being exquisite!”

Author – Stephanie Lahart

The quote above reminds me so much of Queen Laureen my sister, my friend. Laureen is strong, gifted, and Black. She is outspoken and walks to her own beat. She is not afraid to speak out when something is wrong. She has no problem stepping out of her comfort zone. She is kind loving, helpful and caring. She is a strong promoter of all things Afro-centric. She is a “Black Queen!”

 Laureen is a Capricorn from Queens New York. We met at Howard University in the summer of 1970. We have been like sisters ever since. As with most of my very close male and female friends, I consider them all a part of my extended family. Laureen and I have had so much fun on our friendship journey: attending concerts, parties, dances, Howard University Homecomings, numerous cultural and African-American centered events, and activities, visiting with families during the holidays, supporting each other with addressing the after effects of trials, tribulations, and triumphs, and checking in on one another.

Over the years I wore a braided hairstyle with extensions. Laureen was my braiding specialist for over 10 years. She created braiding styles that were intricate and exquisite. They were beautiful!! I always received many compliments. This artwork “Queen Laureen” is a tribute to Laureen my sister, friend, and master braider!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Queen Of The Night - 2020 - 22" x  22"

Queen of the Night

Who is my “Queen of the Night”? Is she the “Queen of the Night” from Mozart’s opera, “The Magic Flute” who in a vengeful rage bullies her daughter and puts a knife in her hand to kill her rival, Sarastro, no! Is she Whitney Houston decked out in a sparkly rhinestoney, glittery outfit singing about being “Queen of the Night” in the movie “The Bodyguard” no! My “Queen of the Night” in some ways could be compared to the Cereus Cactus. A beautiful Blooming aromatic flower that blooms at night and wilts by dawn. According to Beyond Science TV, “She blooms in full and her beauty is only witnessed by the night sky and, by dawn, she wilts even before the sun’s first kiss; with only her fragrant scent left as the ghost of her evening arrival” My “Queen of the Night” is a night creature. Alluringly beautiful, energetic, enticing, fascinating, tempting, seductive, and delightful to be around. Always the life of the party. As the evening begins to wind down the quintessential hostess with the moistest, the “Queen of the Night” herself begins to wilt as the Cereus Cactus and disappears into the shadows leaving her fragrant scent to linger.

Author Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Say It Loud...I'm Wearing My Natural Hair Style With, Love and I'm Proud - 2024

“As a Black Woman with kinky, curly hair there is a self-love discovery that comes along with hair”

Author – Artist, Tyler Clark

Say It Loud … I’m Wearing My Natural Hair Style With, Love and I am Proud!

Black hair styles and hair care have always been a significant concern in the Black female community past and present. In the past elaborate hairstyles and braided styles were used to identify social status, and tribal affiliations. During slavery braided styles were used as a form of communications. Through the use of intricate designs, and patterns, braided styles were sometimes used to communicate messages and routes to freedom.  Black hair has been used as a sign of status, pride, protest, resistance, empowerment, and celebration. The first female self-made millionaire in the United States was Madame C.J. Walker, a Black hair care entrepreneur extraordinaire.

 In the past and even now the opposition and prejudice to various black hair styles still takes place in the workplace, at school and even in athletics. These instances of hair bias, have been widely publicized. In some workplaces having a straightened hairstyle is celebrated while having a curly or natural look is looked upon as unprofessional. Many Black women have changed their hairstyles to fit the protocols of their workplace. On July 3, 2019 the CROWN Act (Create A Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair) was passed in California and signed into law by its governor, Governor Gavin Newson.  This legislation bans all discrimination and bias on hairstyle and texture. This legislation has been passed in 23 states so far. On March 18, 2022 this bill passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill was introduced to the U.S. Senate on December 14, 2022 and did not pass. The CROWN Act, was created to stop all types of hair discrimination through the United States. According to Dr Johanna Lukate, “For women of color, hairstyling- from chemically relaxing to covering your hair with a wig or deliberately wearing it in a Afro – is about managing a marginalized identity”. 

 As a little girl I wore my hair in various age-appropriate braided styles for school and a press and curl style for church and special occasions. My mom and grandma would always press my hair and use rolled brown paper strips to roll my bangs and my hairstyle. I either wore my hair in a press and curl style or wore various wigs. When I arrived on the campus of Howard University in 1969, my hair was cut in a close- cropped Afro style accented with a reddish-brown color. Throughout my 4 - year stay at Howard University and after graduation I wore my hair in an afro, corn rolls, perms, braids, and press and curl style.  I finally decided to adopt a more healthier hair state. I let my hair grow out. I stopped using perms and artificial hair care. My road to hair recovery began and ended with braided hair styles. My braidologist, Laureen Smith-Butler was not only a master braider but also an artistic braid stylist. Around 2018 I began to color my hair a champagne gold color and change my hairstyle to all natural styles. I’m “Saying it Loud…I’m wearing My Natural Hairstyle With, Love and I’m Proud!”.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2024

Sharon - 2019 -16" x 13" 

Minimah and Sharon

I am from a small town in New Jersey called Vauxhall. Minimah and Sharon are from there too. I have been friends with them for over 60 years. We are like family! Sharon and I were in kindergarten together. Minimah was a couple of years older than us. We always hung out together. In my early years I remember her sweet grandmother Ms. Patty and her grandfather Mr. Johnson who drove a cab. Ms. Patty was so kind hearted. When we moved on to junior high and high school Mr. Johnson would periodically give us rides to school. He was a wild driver. Most of the time while riding in his station wagon cab we would cover our eyes and silently pray that we would get to school in one piece. As years moved on Sharon, Minimah and I went our separate ways but we kept in contact with each other and tried to visit each other when possible. Sharon moved to another town when we were in high school. Minimah graduated from high school and got married and I went off to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C. We had many memorable memories…school, hanging out at each other’s homes, The Dome and Cheetah clubs in New York City, hanging out in Brooklyn, New York, attending parties and concerts all over New Jersey, attending Sunday School and church at First Baptist, hanging out at the White Castle Restaurants and eating the 12 cent hamburgers, 15 cent fries and  15 cent drinks, parties in my parents basement, attending picnics, swimming in the summertime at Rahway pool, hanging out at The Jefferson Elementary School playground in the summers and attending Boys and Girls night at the school in the winters, and the many dance practice sessions on my parents enclosed porch. We always had big fun! Over the years we have always tried to support each other especially in times of importance. We always played together, partied together, cried together celebrated together and were available when needed no matter where we were geographically. To this day we still check on each other through text or phone calls. Great and true friendships are forever and we three will always be forever friends.

Author Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Sister Circle - 2019 - 17" x 18" 

Sister Circle

According to Sivana East, “Symbolism of a Circle, the circle as a symbol is the symbol of divine energy. It has a feminine touch that embodies compassion, manifestation, and infinity”. I have been blessed with a circle, a “Sister Circle”! A circle of girls and women of all ages and races who have been there for me from the cradle. They have been the strongholds in my life. They have been there for me through triumphs and tragedies. My sister circle is comprised of female family members, friends, supporters, mentors, colleagues, and second mothers. These sisters have surrounded me with information, love, happiness, wisdom, peace, courage, protection, strength and power.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Some Days We All Experience The Blues - 2021 - 19" x 19"

Some Days We All Experience the Blues

In the Urban Dictionary feeling blue is described to “be depressed or sad.” Sometime or another everybody experiences the blues. We all may have days when sad thoughts get in our heads and  get the best of us, maybe the loss of a job, an opportunity, loss of family and friends, or pets. If you  get in a blue mood try to change the mood. Do not let the mood drag you down. Learn how to let go of the things that drag you down. When I am Blue I:

Do the things that bring me joy

Get the proper rest

Eat right/Do not overdo it

Carve out time to relax

Seek professional help if needed

Set up a support network of family and friends to talk to

Meet up with friends, to talk, laugh, dance, eat and be merry

Do not let myself get overwhelmed with requests and say no sometimes instead of always yes

Treat myself good – go the gym, spa, or4e take a walk in the park.

Most of all if you are not affiliated with a church or another organization that will help you understand your blueness find one.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Sometimes We Have To Wear The Veil - 2021 - 22" x 22"

Sometimes We Have Wear The Veil

There are times in our lives when we have to wear the veil. Sometimes to hide sadness, pain, excitement, fear, joy, hurt, disappointment, and facial expressions.

Sometimes we have to wear the veil to hide the tears, disguise our fears

Sometimes we have to wear the veil

To hide our joy, our love, our strength, or hint of dismay

Sometimes we have to wear the veil

Because wearing the veil may be the only way not to say what we feel!

Sometimes wearing the veil may be the only way to control our emotions and remain cool and calm.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Spirits Of Indigenous And  Native African Americans - 2020 - 19-1/2" x 15-1/2"

Spirits of Indigenous And Native African-Americans

In July 2011 my cousin Norma was visiting me in Washington, D.C. from New Jersey. She is a lover of Indigenous and Native African American history and culture. We visited the National Museum of the American Indian to tour the museum and the exhibit “IndiVisible: African-Native American Lives in the Americas.” The exhibition was created through a collaborative effort of The Museum of the American Indian, the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. It was an exhibit of 20 panels that highlighted the people, culture, and historical facts about the African-American Native Experience in America. I learned so much about Native African Americans and their trials, tribulations and the fight to be wholly respected, included, and recognized by the Indian nation. While in the museum, we got an opportunity to purchase books on Native African-Americans and speak with a few Native African-Americans who spoke about their dismay about not being recognized by many Indian tribes that they had evidence of belonging to. This exhibit was very memorable!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Sugar Pie - 2020 - 15" x 15" 

Sugar Pie

When I hear someone calling out Sugar Pie my mind goes back to my childhood. My relatives often either gave us a nick-name or often referred to us with loving names. Some of the names that they would use were sugar pie, pumpkin, sweetie, cutie pie, honey, princess, precious, pookie pie, Ba…bee, little darling and baby doll. These names were endearing. They were often spoken with love. My dad would call me Bebsky. He had a sing-song sound when he called me. It always made me smile when he said “That’s my Bebsky”! My uncle Frank always called all females sugar pie. Some people would call me Lil Liza after my grandmother Eliza Maxwell. I loved her very much and enjoyed being called “Lil Liza”. Hearing those names every now and then, brings back many memories and the people who were associated with them. Memories to always be cherished! Memories never to be forgotten!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Sunny - 2018 - 14" x 11" 

Sunny

I love the summer, the warmth, and the sun! The sun always reminds me of wonderfully sunny things: the sun, vacations to sunny places, trips to the community pools and beaches,  people dressed in sunny bright colors, parties where the attire is all white, yellow squash and bananas, drinking Bahamas Mamas, lazy summer days, summertime memories, picnics, boat rides and warm breezes. Four of my favorite summer songs are: “Those Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days of Summer sung by Nat King Cole, “Sunny “sung by Bobby Hebb, “Hot Fun in The Summertime” sung by Sly and the Family Stone and my all-time favorite “Summertime” sung by Will Smith.  These songs get me in the summer groove. A beautiful day at the beach, in the water with the sun shining overhead or just sitting on the beach and watching the sun’s effect providing a glistening glow on the water, are some of my most treasured summer moments. I love walking in the park with the one I love, holding hands and sharing loving thoughts surrounded by the warmth of the sun. A sunny warm day is also perfect for an outside mini–Happy Hour, friends and family picnics or get togethers.

Back in the day we did not have air condition. We sufficed by either having window fans or opening the windows and putting screens in them. Many nights when it was really hot, the family would sit outside on the steps. At times the mosquitoes were very annoying. My dad would burn rags on the sidewalk in front of where we were sitting. Mosquitoes seem to hate smoke because they would not come near us. The only negative after effect of this process was that we had to contend with the after effects of smelling like smoke. What are some of your summer memories?

Author - Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

The Fabulous Mrs. Kelly - 2020 - 22" x 22" 

The Fabulous Mrs. Kelly

Growing up my mom used her talents as a seamstress and tailor to create the best fit and style for her clients. She made sure that the outfits that they wore were stylishly appropriate. Her main concern was that her clients looked their best and that they were pleased with the finished product. Mommy believed that “everyone should look their best whether clothes are tailor-made or store-bought.” She made sure that all her clients clothing that was tailor-made or in need of alterations, fit to a tee. Mrs. Kelly was one of my mom’s favorite clients. She would travel from Newark, New Jersey which was about a forty-minute drive twice a month for my mom to either design and make her an outfit or just provide alterations.

It was always an event when Mrs. Kelly came. If it was summertime my friends and I would sit outside on the curb and wait for her arrival with baited breath. She would pull up on the side of our house in her goldish shiny “like new money” 1960 Fleetwood Brougham Cadillac “Fit for a Queen”. We would just look at Mrs. Kelly and her Cadillac in amazement. Mrs. Kelly was the first woman that I ever witnessed back in the day drive a Cadillac.

Her face was fully made up- face powder, rouge, eye shadow, mascara, false eyelashes, and lipstick. Sometimes she wore a beautifully coiffed wig or her own hair which was also beautifully coiffed. She was always dressed to the nines from head to her high heels.

Mrs. Kelly always admired my mom, her grace, spirit, wisdom, and style. My mom had a protruding perfectly shaped mole on the left side of her chin. Mrs. Kelly always thought that the mole was beautiful. In honor of her admiration for my mother Mrs. Kelly penciled in a mole on the left side of her chin. She would always tell us “That my mom was a beautiful person, inside and out “.

Mrs. Kelly was buxom with a large derriere and a tiny waist. She always liked her clothes to fit tight. She had a switchy walk and she always wore high heels. She attended a large church where her husband was head of the Deacon Board and a member of the Board of Trustees. At church Mrs. Kelly would dress the part of the head Deacon’s wife. Every Sunday when she would enter church, she would slay the congregation with her swag and style as she sash-shayed to her seat. All eyes were on her! Her outfits were always fitting to a tee, thanks to mom, accessorized with jewelry, gloves, hats and furs when it was wintertime. Mrs. Kelly was a “Stylish Super Diva of the 60’s”.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

The Magic In Us - 2021 - 17-1/2" x 21" 

The Magic In Us

In my early youth I believed in wizards, magic, and magical characters, and so did many of my friends. Some wanted to be wizards to cast spells or make people disappear like you would see or read about in fairy tales. Other friends wanted to be magicians and perform magical feats like take a rabbit out of a hat or make a limp piece of string straighten out with the use of a magic wand. We believed in magical creatures: Santa Claus, Fairy Godmothers, and the Tooth Fairy. There were times when an unexplainable occurrence would happen. When we could not explain it, we would shrug it off and say “that’s magic “or how did they do that?

 Just living day to day is a magical feat within itself for some of us. There have been times when I have had to draw from a power source deep within my soul that I did not know was there, to help solve a problem that seemed unsolvable. Those for me were, magical moments.  I believe that there is a power source in us, a magical source in us, a little voice that guides us, that gives us magical powers to change our I cants into I cans, to climb mountains of issues that seem unsolvable, and gives us strength and magical power when needed to overcome.

Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it” – Author -Roal Dahl

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

The Magic Of Ms. Lula - 2020 - 18" x 17-1/2"

The Magic Of Ms. Lula

“I have been sustained by you ever since I was born; from my mother’s womb you have been my strength; my praise shall be always of you”

From The Book of Common Prayer

To know Lula May Cox Raye is complete joy. She is effervescent, engaging, positive, loving, caring, happy, spiritually grounded, no-nonsense, dependable, honest. She is my sister from another mother. Forty -one years ago, August 1981, at approximately 8:00 am I entered the main office of Paul Laurence Dunbar High School to begin my high school journey as an art teacher. The first person who addressed me was non other than Lula May Cox Raye and the rest is history and we began our sister hood journey! I will always remember hearing her cheerful greeting…” Good Morning…How may I help you in a very welcoming voice.  Our sisterhood on-going journey has been full of family gatherings, happiness, sadness, success, failure, accomplishments, and support.

Lula has experienced some trials, triumphs, tragedies and tribulations along her highway of life. She has survived by focusing in on herself, health, her connection with God, and the love of family and friends.

Lula could be best described as liquid spiritual sunshine. She is very inspirational and a true believer of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his power over all things. She lives her life according to her goals and aspirations. She loves the crowd but she is not a member of it. She walks to the beat of her own music. Her wisdom is priceless and her spirituality and commitment to her church is unquestionable. Her commitment to her family, to self-love, to live a Godly life, is undeniable. Lula was employed by D.C. Public Schools and D.C. Superior Court for a number of years before retirement, has travelled extensively, and took a number of college courses.

She is a mother, grand-mother, and great-grandmother. Lula loves her grandkids lovingly or if necessary, they may be the recipients of the tough love. She has supported them over the years by attending and participating in programs at their schools and being available for whatever else they need. Her adult children have always had a front seat to her love, wisdom, encouragement, support, and prayers.

Lula is dearly loved by her church family at St. Georges Episcopal Church in Washington D.C. She brings energy, love, light and the peace whenever she enters her church. Lula went away on vacation for two months. When she returned to church her church family was overwhelmed with tears when they saw her. A few members commented: “We really missed you”, “We are glad you are back”, and “when you left you took your spirit with you” and “you never miss a person until they are gone.

 Lula, as famous singer/songwriter Jill Scott sings on her “Golden” record, is “Living Her Life Like It’s Golden. One of Lula’s favorite sayings is “Stay prayed up in the inside before you go outside.”

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

The Meritorious RBG - R - Red, B - Black, G - Green - 2020 - 16" x 16" 

The Meritorious RBG (R-Red , B-Black, G-Green)

The colors Red, Black and Green are represented in the African Liberation Flag that was created in the early 1900’s by The Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League. The colors stand for Red – the blood that unites all people of black ancestry, Black – represents the Black People as a nation and the Green- land and abundant wealth of Africa. The colors Red, Black and Green bring back many fond memories.

In 1968 James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul” released one of his most important and historic tunes, “Say It Loud: I’m Black and I’m Proud”. In 1970 he released another song titled, “I Don’t’ Want Nobody to Give Me Nothing”. Many protests and riots were taking place all over the country. During my junior year in high school black consciousness and Black Pride were on the move. A press and curl hairstyle or wearing wigs were slowly beginning to become not so popular with my peers. Girls and Guys began to sport Afros, large, short or sculptured. Most people began to wear dashikis or other African inspired garb. Peace, Power, or “Power to the People” became a welcoming greeting. Black power slogans, the colors red, black and green, and the display of pride was evident throughout the African-American community.

Author – Bevadine Z. Terrell 2023

The Sisters Of The Church Laid Hands On Me - Memories Of First Baptist Church Of Vauxhall, New Jersey and Shiloh Baptist Church Of Washington, D.C. - 2022 - 20" x 16" 

The Sisters Of The Church Laid Hands On Me - Memories Of First Baptist Church of Vauxhall, New Jersey and Shiloh Baptist Church Of Washington, D.C.

Growing up my mom and gramma always made sure that we went to Sunday School and church on Sundays. We started out as youngsters going to Sunday School and as we got a little older, we attended church. I have very fond memories of First Baptist Church of Vauxhall, New Jersey especially Sunday School. We attended classes in the basement of the church. Our Sunday School Superintendent Mr. Henry Jackson always worked hard, talked and moved fast. He was a very stern but humorous gentleman. Mrs. Pearl Hillman, Mrs. Bruton and Mrs. Burnet, our Sunday School Teachers made primary Sunday School a very positive experience. My mom always dressed us up nicely in outfits made by her. It was a fun time to learn about Jesus and be with friends. We sang songs, “Jesus Loves the Little Children, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, Jesus the Light of the World, Jesus Loves Me and Jesus Loves the little Children” and made church related projects. We attended Vacation Bible School in the summers, attended church picnics, went on trips, and participated in Children’s Day and other holiday themed church programs.

When I got older, I attended adult Sunday School where our teacher was our Pastor, The Reverend Elmer Williams. On Sunday afternoons I attended BTU which was a church club for teenagers. I got baptized when I was in the 10th grade. After all the baptismal candidates were baptized, we left the baptismal area, got dressed and were sent back to the main sanctuary. There we were presented to the church body. The deaconesses formed a circle around us and they placed a hand on each one of us. Reverend Williams prayed a deep and emotional prayer over us. After the prayer we took the “right hand of fellowship”. Each Deacon, deaconess and Reverend Williams shook our hand.

First Baptist had several auxiliary church organizations. One of the organizations was the “Mothers and Friends Club.” They provided family related activities and community support. When I graduated from high school, they gifted me with a one-time $400.00 scholarship to be divided between the two semesters. Back then that was a lot of money. I bought books and art supplies during my freshman year at Howard University. One statement Reverend Williams made to graduating seniors who were going to college out-of-town was that “as you go off to college or move away always connect with a church”. When I got to college, I attended church services on campus. Some of my favorite memories at First Baptist were:

Walking to Sunday School/Church with friends

Vacation Bible school

Seeing and listening to the “Barefoot” Preacher

The Reverend washing the feet of members during Easter

Good Friday Service

Watch Night Service

Participating in the church’s plays

Sunday School

After graduating from Howard University, I settled in Washington, D.C. I attended many churches around town. My denomination is Baptist but I attended many other church denominations. The church that I attended often was Shiloh Baptist Church located at ninth and P street N.W. Washington, D.C. At the time the church was shepherded by Reverend Henry T. Gregory III until his death. After his death Reverend Dr. Wallace Charles Smith became the new Senior Minister. I attended Shiloh a number of years before I joined. I also participated in many of the organizations at Shiloh. One of which was there tennis club, “Tennis At Shiloh(TAS)”. Many members thought that I was an official member at Shiloh. When I decided to join Shiloh, I had to attend the New Members Workshop for several weeks. After completing the New Members Workshop, I was accepted into the church and received the “Right Hand of Fellowship” during church service on Sunday, November 18, 1990. It was beautiful! I can remember shaking the hands of the ministerial staff, the deacons and deaconesses. As the minister began to render a special prayer for all the new members, three deaconesses came over to me and placed their hands on my shoulders until the prayer ended. As the prayer ended the deaconesses hug me and kissed me on my cheek. At Shiloh each new member is assigned to a church circle. Mine is Social Reapers. Your church circle keeps you informed of church activities, holds church circle meetings, helps to support church projects and participates in cultural activities and periodically checks on circle members by telephone.

I have so many memories of Shiloh and its members. Some of the memories of activities and heavenly members whom I miss are:

Musical genius of Everette Williams III

Trustees, Deaconesses and Deacons marching in to collect the tithes and offerings

Meet and greet portion of the worship service when the Pastor encourages everyone to leave their seats to greet people

Senior Choir, Gospel Choir, Silent Mission Choir and the Mariellen Lofton Memorial

Tennis at Shiloh (TAS)

ASALH (Association for the Study of Afro0American Life and History) of which I was a former president

The Shiloh Baptist Church Newsletter

Use of sign language during worship service for the hearing impaired members

Circle meetings

The Christmas concerts

My Shiloh Heavenly Angels: Margaret Anderson, Deaconess and Deacon Evelyn and John Calbert, Martha Ferguson, Minnie Holcomb, Deaconess Rose Janifer Deaconess Ollie Person, Jewell Randall, Deaconess and Deacon Marian and Paul Pryde, Sarah Smalls, Deacon Walter Toler, and Deaconess and Deacon Merca and John Toole.

One of Shiloh’s mantras about the church is “9th and P is the place to be”. I will give this mantra an AMEN!

Author – Bevadine Z. Terrell 2023

Three Queens of Royalty Are:  Queen Mother, Queen, Queen In Waiting - 2022 - 28-1/2" x 17-1/2"

Three Queens of Royalty Are: Queen Mother, Queen, Queen in Waiting

When I think of the Queens in My Life my mind goes directly to My Great Grandmother – Mamie Jenkins, My Grandmothers – Rose Jackson and Eliza Jenkins Maxwell and my mother - Zoma Terrell. They were at some time in their lives all three. They ruled over their families. They provided us and our family community security, history, love, happy times, strength, leadership, advice, support, and faith. They were hard-working, well respected, admired, dedicated, enterprising, god-filled, strong minded, responsible, no-nonsense, loving women.

Even though we were not rich they always seemed to make a way out of no way. They worked hard with their partners and husbands to help make ends meet. They instilled in us a strong sense of self respect for self and others and determination and dedication to lead a meaningful life. They also taught us to find a career that suits us, be graceful, dignified, respectful, be adventurous, and be bold.

We were encouraged to go to college, select a work career that would sustain us and our lifestyle or be an entrepreneur. The lessons that they taught us were unforgettable, invaluable and relevant to this life. There are times when I think about them and the hard work and sacrifices that they made to provide us all with a nurturing, loving environment that would allow us to thrive, grow and be good citizens. They would always preach that hard work, possessing a positive and determined attitude, dedication and sacrifice will take you a long way. Praises to all the Queens in your life!

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

We Got Our Eyes On You - 2021 - 16-1/2" x 13"

We Got Our Eyes On You

“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny”

Lao Tzu

My mom and dad would always remind us before we left home to go anywhere be mindful of our words and actions because someone is always watching you. They not only meant their eyes but the eyes of the community and beyond. They would always tell us not to forget that we were representing our home and community. We were taught to be respectful of our peers and elders and to “mind our manners.”

We lived in a small tight knitted community where everybody knew everybody. Good and bad news travelled fast around our neighborhood. If some of the community members observed you acting in an unacceptable manner, they would correct you and let your parents know. The word would reach home before you got there. On the other hand, good news would travel to your home just as fast.

From our relatives, to teachers at school, people at events, and community members someone was always watching us. As a child growing up, I would watch older relatives, and other adults who I admired in the community to see how they carried themselves, observe the things that they did and listen to what they would speak about. Sometimes in my decision-making or just trying to navigate during the day I would often reflect on past observations and conversations. I had an older brother to look up to and younger sisters who looked up to me. I always tried to conduct myself in a positive, and respectful manner.

After I graduated from college and started my job, the words, “We Got Our Eyes on You” proved to be one of my strongest tools in my toolbox. Not only did I have my eyes on the students but they also had their eyes on me. I began my career as an Art Teacher and retired as an Assistant Principal. I always tried to conduct myself in a respectful way. I was a hard worker, dedicated to my job and my students, loving, understanding, positive and no-nonsense. I tried to be a great role model for my students and impart to them some of my old-school lessons learned.

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023

Zoma's Butterfly 2 - Ms. Zoma.  Queen Of Our Family Universe - 2019 - 23" x 23"

Zoma’s Butterfly 2

“A butterfly lights beside us, like a sunbeam and for a brief moment its glory and beauty belong to our world.

But then it flies on again, and though we wish it could have stayed, we are so thankful to have seen it”

Author Unknown

I have always wondered where the name Zoma originated from. So far, I have had no luck. I only have had brief encounters with the name. In Fianar, Madagascar one of the largest open-air markets is called the Zoma Market where you can purchase just about anything. In Japan and China, a Zoma is a “genus of ray spiders”. In my world Zoma was my mom.

Zoma is the inspiration and support mechanism that has kept me going, and going, and going. She was the wind beneath my wings for 71 years. As of July 20. 2022 she is now my newest angel and Heavenly guardian.  Mommy has always been my number one cheerleader. She has always encouraged me to reach for the stars, be who you want to be and never allow anyone to determine who or what you should be. She would always say to me “Be the Best Bevie You Can Be.”

My mom was always loving, creative, wise, sensible, informative, and God-spirited towards me and my three other siblings. As a child growing up mom always made sure that we were exposed to all types of cultural experiences and that we knew what was going on in the world (we got newspapers daily – The Newark Star Ledger, The Union Leader, The Amsterdam News, The Daily Mirror, The New York Times and The Daily News), sent us to Sunday School and Church every Sunday, participated in community organizations – The Newark Leaguers, the Girl and Boy scouts the Community Action Youth Organization and she took us and a few of our friends on day trips – to places like the New York World’s Fair in 1964, Rockefeller Center to see the Rockettes Christmas Show, musical and cultural events at the Symphony Hall, Robert Treat , and RKO Theatres in Newark , New Jersey. Mom made sure we were spiritually grounded by sending us to Sunday School and church. Mom monitored our school progress and made sure that we were meeting our targets and goals. Mom or dad attended PT A meetings and parent conferences when needed.

I had two sisters and one brother and mom knew us very well individually. Dad and mom worked with us as a team. Dad had to work a lot. He provided us with support (he was great with math), tough love, and a butt whooping when needed.

Mom told me that I displayed artistic talent at a very early age. She told me that while everybody was outside I was always playing school with my dolls and teaching them Art. Sometimes I would play school and use my sisters and brother to act like students. She told me back then that I would be an artist or a teacher when I got older.

Mom was artistically talented. She loved to sew and design outfits. At the age of 12 her mom bought her first sewing machine. As mom got older, she began to sew professionally. In her younger years she would model her own crafted designs in Fashion Shows all over New Jersey. She not only created fashions for models she also modeled in many fashion shows. She modeled in many shows sponsored by the well-known Fashion aficionado at that time, Renee Starks. Over the years mom began to amass many customers who loved her work. Her List of clients ranged from everyday people to top notch entertainers. She was a master of her craft. Mom always said that “everyone should look their best whether clothes are tailor-made or store-bought. The key to looking good not only depended on attitude, but also proper fit, style, and fabric (Color/Texture), to enhance and make a positive statement to reflect the best, for you.”

Author – Bevadine Zoma Terrell 2023