I, Hope Parker, was born and raised downtown New Orleans. Growing up I was introduced to a culture of cooking, music, dance, and arts and crafts. Art was so fun, I personally used it as an extra activity I indulged in from time to time. I enjoyed walking through the French Quarters art galleries and dreamed of being a fashion designer one day. I attended McDonald 35 Senior High, but due to Hurricane Katrina, I graduated from Westside High in Houston, Texas. After graduating high school I moved back home and worked full time while attending Delgado, then William Carey for nursing prerequisites. In between time beginning 2010, I unconsciously started a spiritual transition. I cut my hair natural, pierced the frontlet between my eyes, and took heed to spiritual messages. I started writing my thoughts and feelings as poetry using it to describe the story behind my art. August 2012, I enrolled in Dillard University School of Nursing. I graduated in May 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I am currently a Registered Nurse aspiring to become a Nurse Midwife. I completed Doula training with Sista Midwife Productions in November 2014 and became a part of Birthmark Doula Collective shortly after. People often ask, “What’s your focus?” This is a difficult conversation in one setting. It’s a lifestyle, a belief, and a way of life. I dream of a world where we can live holistically in nature, health, and beauty. Originality and authenticity of species and spirit is my highest value. I am working my way into the art world to continue sharing this vision with the world.

Describe your art in three words. Visual history and poetry.

Describe yourself in one word. Divine

What do you love the most about creating art in New Orleans? What particular part of your immediate environment, in your neighborhood specifically influences your work? I love creating in New Orleans because my work tells a story of where I am from, where I am going, and my mission in life. My work is very New Orleans; which is rooted in African, French, Spanish, Native American, and African American historical influences.

Describe your creative process. Are there any rituals or rites of passage you exercise before you begin a new piece? All of my work is inspired by my spiritual journey. 

Where do you draw inspiration? I am inspired by my mission and the youth in urban communities. Someday I will open an art center not limited to visual art, but performing arts, culinary arts, martial arts, boxing, and writing. I feel the crime in New Orleans is related to the lack of extracurricular activities for the youth, role models, and income to influence them to pursue a better life.

Who are your artistic influences or gurus? God

In New Orleans, art and music go hand in hand. What type of music, band or song lyric best describes your work? Second-line, jazz, brass, classical, hip hop, and African music best describe my artwork. These are all genres I listen to growing up. This music helped shape who I am today. I create my pieces listening to this music. It also inspires my poetry.

Where can we find you when you are not creating art? If I am not doing art, I am working as a nurse or a doula.

What is your favorite time of day/day of the week/month of the year? The Sabbath day is my favorite day. Passover is my favorite week. September is my favorite month. 

What is something people don’t know about you? A fun fact. One of my favorite things to do is release my waste in the morning. 

Contact Artist

My preferred shipping method is USPS and UPS for extra large packages with certified mail and tracking.  It w Original pieces will include additional insurance. 

A tracking number will be sent to your email. You are welcome to inquire different methods of shipment via email. queenhopeparker@gmail.com. Original shipping prices vary per size.

Shipping generally takes 5-15 business days in the U.S. For international orders, shipping can take 2 - 6 weeks to arrive.

For international shipping prices, rush orders or commissions,  send me a message through the messaging tool on my profile page.