Ichara Neza directly translates to “sit properly” in my native language of Kinyarwanda. The title is a microcosmic view into the idealized and intricate performance of femininity and etiquette by women of color, but specifically African women. Through the following works, I want to use the skills and resources I’ve gained from LMU’s Studio Arts program to express the nostalgia I feel towards adolescence in Rwanda , as well as the unique experience that is navigating gender performance and identity informed deeply by the impact of colonization of my ancestors.