Welcome
Capturing Moments and Crafting Stories
Exploring the threads of memory to weave the fabric of my heritage, I use stunning and memorable photographs and videos.
Exploring the threads of memory to weave the fabric of my heritage, I use stunning and memorable photographs and videos.
I am dedicated to capturing and preserving the essence of human experiences and cultural histories through the art of photography and videos. My mission is to create compelling visual narratives that connect past and present, evoke emotions, and inspire reflection. By intertwining artistic vision with deep personal and historical insights, I want to create a unique perspective that enlightens, educates, and enriches our lives, while telling narratives that use stunning and memorable photographs.
I truly believe in the power of visual stories to bridge the past with the present. I understand the significance of illuminating the intricate tapestry of human experiences through the lens of documentary artistry.
My experience managing an archives team, contributing to academic publications, and volunteering with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History enriches my ability to create compelling narratives that delve into cultural and historical complexities.
Being a Southern African American woman, I am deeply invested in the racial, socio-economic, and educational landscapes within the South. I want to use my academic knowledge and work experiences to tell untold stories and create awareness that leads to long-lasting and impactful change within the region. I am dedicated to capturing and preserving lived experiences and cultural histories through mixed media, photography, and video. Combining my gaze with personal and historical insights, I strive to highlight perspectives that enlighten, educate, and enrich others by telling stories using archival materials, like photos, letters, journals, mixed media art, photography, and film. My ultimate mission is to create compelling visual narratives that connect the past to the present, evoke emotions, and inspire personal reflection.
Dr. Cassandra Hawkins is dedicated to capturing and preserving human experiences and cultural histories through photography and video. By blending her artistic vision with personal and historical insights, she strives to craft perspectives that enlighten, educate, and enrich.
The inspiration for my project stems from participating in the 2024 Summer Staff Creative Residency and exploring a project to remember my grandmother. My grandmother enjoyed keeping journals, writing letters, and taking photos.
Each moment captured tells the stories we carry within us. This piece reflects on heritage, our ancestors' strength, and the power of remembrance and resilience. Every photograph is a doorway, every handwritten word a connection to those who came before us, reminding us that their struggles and triumphs are etched into the fabric of who we are today. In honor of those whose stories continue to guide us.
Echoes of Her Words is a visual tribute to familial legacy and memory, layering a photograph of an elder with handwritten letters to evoke the presence and wisdom of past generations.
Meet our Southern Studies Master of Fine Arts in Documentary Expression student Cassandra Hawkins, Ph.D. She earned her B.S. in psychology with a minor in political science, her M.A. in English, and her doctorate in public policy and administration, all from Jackson State University.
Describe yourself in three words: resilient, strategic, and creative
I'd win gold in the Olympics if: resilience could be a sport.
What is your favorite quote? “There is in this world no such force as the force of a person determined to rise.” Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois
What could you give a TED talk about with zero preparation, and why? I could give a talk on navigating life’s transitions with zero peroration. My life experiences have equipped me with valuable lessons in overcoming challenges, adapting to unexpected changes, and strategically navigating personal and professional environments.
What would be your intro song? "Motivation" by T. I.
What would be an important item for you take to a desert island? A Swiss Army knife
Why did you want to earn a degree in Southern Studies? I am deeply invested in the racial, socio-economic, and educational landscapes within the South. I want to use my experiences and knowledge to tell untold stories and ultimately create awareness that leads to impactful change within the region.
What are you most looking forward to about the program? I am looking forward to combining my creating and academic interests to understand the complexities of the South.”
Repost from the Center for the Study of Southern Culture Instagram account.
For inquiries into my work, please use the form to contact me. I thank you for your interest, and I will do my best to get back to you soon! - Dr. Cassandra Hawkins
Oxford, Mississippi, United States
Sign up to hear about newly released prints and upcoming events!
Copyright © 2025 Vivid Doc - Dr. Cassandra Hawkins - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.