Renee Stout lives and works in Washington, D.C., where she is strongly influenced by the city’s political, social, and religious composition. She looks to the belief systems of various African peoples and their New World descendants for direction and visual inspiration. Through her artwork Stout hopes to empower others to improve society by healing themselves. Her artwork seems to be a personal journey, which she invites fortunate travelers to share. Fictional narratives with imaginary characters accompany Stout along her path.