From Canvas to Court: Honored by Notre Dame Women’s Basketball

I never imagined my art would one day land me at center court during a Notre Dame Women’s Basketball game—but here we are.

This past season, I was honored to be commissioned by the Notre Dame Women’s Basketball team to create a game-day graphic in celebration of Black History Month and their matchup against Stanford. As someone who’s admired this team for years—their legacy, grit, and grace—it was already a dream. But being invited to attend the game and then called to the floor for public recognition? Completely surreal.

Kamika is pictured here with her niece, and muse

The game itself was unforgettable: a commanding 96–47 win. The team played with so much dynamism, it was impossible to look away. But what struck me most wasn’t just the scoreboard—it was the spirit of excellence, teamwork, and joy on the court.

And then came that moment. As an introverted artist, being brought out to the court under the lights was nerve-wracking to say the least—but it was also one of the proudest moments of my creative journey.

The graphic I designed holds deep meaning. The girls in the image wear jerseys from different eras of Notre Dame Women’s Basketball—a visual tribute to the evolution of the team and the legacy of Black women who helped shape it. Their youth is intentional: they represent dreamers, filled with hope, vision, and confidence. It’s a reminder that every young girl should dare to be—bold, brave, and full of belief in her potential.

I was also told that this graphic was the "most liked" gameday social media graphic to date!

To have my work contribute to that message… there are no words, just gratitude.

Thank you, Notre Dame.

Reflections from “For the Love of Art” – A Show That Changed Everything

This year, I had the honor of participating in the For the Love of Art Fair at the Century Center in South Bend—a show that not only exceeded my expectations but shifted something deep within me.

Kamika & Shireen on the set of "Hometown Living"

One of the most impactful moments came from meeting Shireen Johnson. Her insight, kindness, and honest encouragement helped me face something I’d long struggled with: the quiet belief that juried shows, art fairs, and festivals were for “serious” artists—not artists like me. While I’ve always wanted to be seen as serious, I’ve also felt the heavy reality of balancing art with life—of choosing between creative passion and practical responsibilities like feeding my actual children and making actual money.

Shireen’s counsel gave me the courage to go all in. I brought over 18 pieces to the show—and came home with only 2. That’s not just a win; that’s a revelation.

The event was beautifully organized, and I’m so grateful to every collector who took time to visit, share stories, and invest in my work. Your support reminded me that this dream of being a full-time artist might not be so impossible after all.

Truthfully, it is a struggle. There are so many days I feel like giving up. But this show—this moment—helped me believe again. Maybe I don’t have to choose between purpose and provision. Maybe, just maybe, if I keep showing up, I can make it.

Thank you for helping me not give up on art. 💛

New Chapter: Creative Spaces Coordinator at the St. Joseph County Main Library

I'm excited to share that I’ve stepped into a new role as the Creative Spaces Coordinator at the St. Joseph County Main Library. This wasn’t a decision I took lightly—it took deep thought and consideration—but ultimately, it felt like a natural extension of who I am and what I care about: community, creativity, and the power of art to shape lives.

Like many in our area, I’ve always admired the library—not just for its resources, but for the thoughtfulness and vision that went into its recent renovations. The inclusion of a prestigious gallery space signaled something important: that art and culture are not side notes in our community—they’re central to our growth and well-being.

What the space needed was someone to help nurture that vision. To support local and regional artists who aren’t just looking for exposure, but a place to develop, to grow, and to be seen.

This position has been nothing short of rewarding. As a developing artist myself, I understand the doubts, the hopes, the hustle—and the joy. Every day, I get to be part of a community that lifts each other up. We’re finding new ways to push, inspire, and grow together—not just as creatives, but as people.

Art isn’t only about expression. It’s also about healing, connecting, and building a life that reflects beauty and purpose. My hope is to help make this space one where artists and art-lovers alike feel a sense of belonging, where creativity is not an afterthought but a part of everyday life.

Here’s to creating, curating, and cultivating—together.