storäe michele with Courtney Kessel, gallery exhibition & installation.

because you're [mine.] , Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2024.

This title is inspired by the Nina Simone song, "I Put a Spell on You." We are embracing the concept of magic as resistance but also thinking about possession as self-possessed and a sense of ownership and dedication to one's self. The mobiles being little spells cast with intention, the magic is hiding in plain sight for those who do not know..."because you're [mine.]" reflects the idea that no one else has possession over the meaning or meaning-making or the object itself.

because self-possession is the antithesis to white-supremacist-capitalist-patriarchy. because our mundane gestures hold intentionality–our magic hides in plain sight. 

because our existence tells the story of dedication to one’s self, and as Audre Lorde has taught us, “self-care is not a luxury.” because we have mothered ourselves, nurtured our loved ones and still make time for self-pleasure(s). 

because we are ours.

because you’re [mine.]