Yazz Atmore: Sharon

A collage & interview series honoring the Black ass Women we call home. Inspired by my late grandmother this series celebrates the multifaceted, layered & vastness beauty of the Black women we call home, love, joy & ancestor. Series participants offer memories & stories of life with such extraordinary women giving us a glimpse of the many ways love shows up time after time. The collages consist of photos, magazine snippets, colors & patterns that embody the essence of the women we call mother, grandmother, aunt & friend.  I hope this series reminds you that you too will become the new home, peace, love & ancestor for the next generation. We’re Art. The women who have come before us are Art. The ones who will come after us will be Art.

Sharon Bernice Atmore

Interviewee: Tiara Leath, Daughter

What do/did you love the most about her?

I loved her quiet nature. She was always so soft spoken…I think that’s why I’m so quiet.

What was something she taught you?

Courage. When I was in choir growing up I had to sing a solo and I got super nervous. I got so nervous I ran off of stage and cried before I even began to sing. My mom came back there and I remember her telling me that it was okay to be afraid, but I still had to sing. I made a commitment and it had to be fulfilled. She taught me the importance of keeping my word and following through.

What’s one piece of advice did she give you that you’ve held onto & live by?

“Always keep your word.”

What’s a favorite memory or story you have of her?

Back in third grade before she went into the hospital we were sitting in my grandmas house just talking and laughing as I played in her hair. She wasn’t too big on affection growing up, but this was one of the few times where we had the chance to connect and just be in the moment.