Artist Statement

As an artist I am guided by the voices of my ancestors and the transformative power of plant medicines. My name is B Dukes, and I am a multi-hyphenate trans, non-binary artist who hails from the Backwoods of the Deep South. I am Big Ma's baby, carrying the wisdom and teachings of my foremothers in every aspect of my work.

Over the past 15+ years, I have honed my craft and deepened my intentions while grounded in the roots of my practice. I approach my writing, sonic creations, DJ mixes, visual art, filmmaking, and ceremonies with the healing and liberation of my Black and Brown queer kin in mind. My art is not just a means of expression, but a tool for transformation and healing.

I believe in the sacred art of playing with nature, inquiry, pleasure, and rest. I am currently exploring the creation of sacred spaces, interactive art, films, and visual art that liberates, heals, and grounds. My work is inspired by the earth, and I seek to create art that is in harmony with the natural world. Additionally my current research is deeply inspired by the works and wisdom of Dr. Monnica Williams, bell hooks, Luisah Teish, Akwaeke Emezi, Audre Lorde and Carlos Castaneda.

I am currently a psychedelic therapy student of AWE based in South America, seeking to expand my knowledge and incorporate new modalities into my healing offerings. Most recently, my sonic explorations are guiding me to produce experimental and ritual infused improvisational sounds baths. Interpreting the modality by dancing with archaic, electronic and indigenous instruments and languages. Chants ricochet off the walls while synths, drums, shakers and scents of the Gods fill the space — these are temples for rest, restoration and deepened connection. At the intersection of this point of inquiry and plant medicine, my first performance piece “To Be A Witness”, is currently being born.

To Be A Witness (2023) is a multi-year artistic and spiritual commitment - a multidimensional ritual -

a performance piece rooted in the exploration of witnessing and being witnessed at the core of collective transformative healing, existing and traveling within the planet medicine sphere as a Black, trans, non-binary spirit. Incorporating the years of shadow work, individual research, exploration and healing support via fungi, plus current tools being provided through the AWE training program.

Guided by the ancestral matriarchs and medicine of the earth, I am currently occupying Ohlone territory. I am committed to using my art to promote healing, liberation, and social justice. Through my work, I seek to honor my ancestors, connect with the natural world, and inspire others to embrace their own transformative power.