Yazz Atmore: Willie Mae

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.

Willie Mae Stalks

Interviewee: Tiffany Hines, Great Granddaughter

What do/did you love the most about her?

I loved that she was so strong, always down to party and could out cook anyone!

What was something she taught you?

She taught me the skills to be self sufficient and the importance of investing in real estate.

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

She would always tell us, "God bless a child that has their own” I live by that now as a business owner because it is so important to have money and things of your own that is your biggest advantage especially as a woman and not only that Black woman that has a daughter who is watching your every move.

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

My favorite memories of her all include us having family gatherings & she was alway the first one out on the dance floor! Everyone always knew she was the life of the party!