Artist Lex Marie has gone viral on TikTok and Instagram for her artwork confronting discipline within Black households, according to NPR. The artist is based in Washington, D.C., where she creates pieces that explore themes of childhood and corporal punishment.
What happened
During a recent visit to the American University’s Katzen Arts Center, Lex Marie showcased her innovative use of belts as artistic tools. In her studio, belts are transformed into mediums of expression, with some painted and swung like brushes, leaving powerful marks on canvas. “Each piece of work carries a story about childhood, discipline, survival and the complicated ways love can be expressed,” Marie notes.
Marie’s work critiques discipline practices in Black households, seeking to address the often taboo subject of corporal punishment. “I’m critiquing discipline in Black households specifically,” she explains. The artist’s personal experiences as a mother shape her work, as she reflects on her own upbringing and its impact on her parenting decisions.
“Through motherhood, I’m starting to think about my own childhood, and I’m comparing and contrasting it,” Marie states.
Why it matters
Marie’s artwork taps into an urgent conversation about corporal punishment within the Black community. This dialogue is not merely personal but intersects with historical contexts rooted in the legacy of slavery. The examination of these practices raises questions about societal norms and the evolution of parenting.
As difficult as these conversations may be, they are essential for fostering understanding and change. Many families face the challenge of reconciling historical practices with contemporary approaches to discipline.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Lex Marie’s exploration of this theme gained traction, drawing attention to her series of nearly 20 pieces. In her discussions about the project, she revealed its intimate nature, emphasizing her goal of reclaiming narratives surrounding childhood trauma.
As Marie’s work circulated online, reactions poured in from people sharing their own stories of childhood experiences with discipline, prompting deeper contemplation of the practices inherited through generations.
What’s next
Lex Marie’s series will expand in the coming year, culminating in a solo exhibition at The Bishop gallery in Brooklyn, New York, this fall. The exhibition will feature her latest works, offering a space for ongoing discussions on the complexities of discipline within Black households.
