In college, I composed a portrait series of Aaliyah for a calendar. I chose her for a few reasons, though, mainly because I was interested in what was not well known about her.

Her grandmother passed away from breast cancer and this was a cause near and dear to her. She was also a perfectionist and straight A student. It was in elementary school where she played the role of Annie that sparked her interest in entertainment.

I took such care in choosing the photographs and the work that went into them, along with the biographical information for each month. The process of that was actually my first marathon series, which kind of prepared me for the tenacity the theme I do today in my fine artwork.

The portraits were rendered with pastels and I have them still. Pastels were my introduction into adding color to my work, until I went on to painting.

I sometimes wonder at what levels Aaliyah’s career would be now. She was lovingly called Baby Girl in the industry. May she rest well.