What Ya Want? Grit, Grace, and the Art of Self-Expression

Art has the power to capture the essence of a moment, a feeling, or a message. For me, the inspiration behind “m a k e i t g r i t t y [keepitpretty]” came from Eve’s iconic track “What Ya Want.” Her lyrics exude an unapologetic confidence that transcends time, a reminder to embrace duality: grit and grace, power and poise, boldness and beauty.

The line “Keep it pretty or can make it gritty, be a lady” struck a chord with me. It speaks to the freedom women have to define themselves, to be complex and multifaceted without compromise. This artwork is my interpretation of that energy—a celebration of strength and femininity, unapologetically bold yet effortlessly elegant.

Eve’s lyrics in “What Ya Want” exude a powerful blend of assertiveness, independence, and unapologetic self-confidence. In this 2001 song, she portrays herself as both desirable and untouchable, as she commands respect while refusing to be objectified. Lines like “Boss type hold it down, wantin’ all of y’all” and “mistake, I said gimme, bet I’m takin’ it now” capture her as a woman in control, unwilling to compromise her values or self-worth for anyone’s approval.

The lyric “Keep it pretty or can make it gritty, be a lady” encapsulates a duality that resonates with many: the choice to balance grace with grit, beauty with strength. It’s this very line that inspired my artwork “m a k e i t g r i t t y [keepitpretty].” Through Eve’s words, she tells women they can be powerful and feminine, gritty and graceful—whatever they want to be.

By rejecting objectifying advances and maintaining clear boundaries, Eve embodies an independence that’s both rare and empowering in early 2000s hip-hop. A modern day lens reminds listeners Eve is speaking for herself and for women everywhere, sending a message: empowerment can come from within, simply by owning who you are and setting standards for how you want and deserve to be treated.

I wanted to bring that energy to life visually. “m a k e i t g r i t t y [keepitpretty]” is an ode to a woman’s strength and unapologetic attitude. It’s a reminder that women can be bold and graceful, feminine and fierce. Through my art, I’m redefining what it means to be a “lady”—it’s not about conforming but rather about embracing one’s own complexity and power. I hope you enjoy.