Trueson Daugherty's art reflects his journey to heal from religious trauma caused by extremism. His work sheds light on the struggles of many Oklahomans who have suffered from religious intolerance. He aims to raise awareness and promote a more compassionate society amidst harmful right-wing policies targeting marginalized groups.
As a painter, my work is deeply rooted in the styles of the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Currently I draw inspiration from the masterful use of light and shadow in Caravaggio's paintings, as well as the dreamlike settings found in the work of Botticelli.
However, my art also reflects my personal experience of leaving the unification church. The dark, dramatic lighting in my paintings symbolizes the emotional turmoil I felt as I left the organization and grappled with my newfound sense of freedom. The idealized figures and heavy use of iconography in my work aim to reflect the opulence and grandeur of the church, while also symbolizing the overwhelming nature of its influence on my life.
I use my practice as a way to process and make sense of my past experiences, as well as to express the emotional complexities of leaving a group that had such a profound impact on my life. My paintings are not meant to be literal representations of my experiences, but rather a visual exploration of the emotions and ideas that have shaped me as a person. I hope that my paintings will resonate with others who have gone through a similar experience with religious extremism.
In addition to painting, my practice includes hosting a salon known as the Parlour, which is dedicated to providing a space for Tulsa's artistic community to gather and share ideas. I am inspired by the impact Gertrude Stein had on the modernist movement in Paris and believe that Tulsa has the potential to significantly influence artistic and cultural movements far beyond the oklahoma, through a similar practice.
I believe that art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, and I hope that my paintings will resonate with others who have gone through a similar experience. My practice is my way of making sense of the past, and moving forward with a renewed sense of self and purpose
