Spikes & Smiles is my exploration of Black identity through the symbolism of the sea urchin, using Pop Art aesthetics to reflect the boldness, vibrancy, and visibility of Black culture. Often perceived as existing at the bottom—overlooked or misunderstood—the sea urchin mirrors how Black people are frequently positioned within society. Yet, like the sea urchin, we are deeply coveted for our richness, creativity, and cultural “taste.” Through bright colors, sharp forms, and playful contrasts, this body of work confronts the tension between devaluation and desire, protection and consumption, revealing beauty, resilience, and worth beneath the surface.