This Black History Month, the Philadelphia Department of Aviation highlights Black artists whose artwork has been featured at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).Tiff Davis, also known as American Queen TJD, had the opportunity to have her artwork, “My Thoughts Wear Crowns”, on display in PHL’s F Connector for two years as part of “Jawn 6”.  

Davis is a motivational painter who uses her craft to communicate. Born in West Philadelphia, Davis noticed her love for art at a young age. “It was a part of who I was growing up,” she explained. Davis started off drawing Saturday morning cartoon characters, pictures for teachers, and even the cover art for her eighth grade graduation pamphlet. Having her artwork displayed at the airport, along with hosting her own solo art galleries in her neighborhood, and a t-shirt featured in Macy’s during Black History Month, has been among Davis’ biggest career accomplishments thus far.  

Davis’ piece displayed in the F connector is a piece from one of her favorite series. This piece is geared to motivate positive self-talk and encourage people to uplift their thoughts while also incorporating elements of Black culture, including sayings that people could resonate with. Davis is inspired by Queen Latifah, Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliot, Nina Simone and visual artists like Joan Mitchell and Keith Haring, to name a few.  

Currently Tiff Davis/ American Queen TJD is working on creating her own pack of affirmation cards with her artwork, an artbook of her artwork, and in the process of putting together a fundraiser to create an affirmation museum that travels. To see more of Davis’ work visit her website or social media @americanqueentjd.