“Black boys deserve to see their dreams come to fruition with love and grace. Hank Aaron is a continuous reminder that when we honor our passions, we can handle everything else with the discernment it deserves.”

- Chiomma Hall

The Atlanta Braves commissioned four bats in honor of Hank Aaron. This Bats Project is a part of their first major fundraising campaign, 755 Legacy Club through the fund. I, alongside 10 other Black Atlanta artists, created hand-painted Hank Aaron inspired baseball bats for their high-level campaign donors. It was an honor to create these bats. Through my research, I found that Hank Aaron was an important reminder that our dreams are just as much about survival as it is play.

Key Elements Include:

1. 17 stars are painted across all four bats symbolizing Aaron’s record setting 755 home runs.

2. Metallic Yellow tips with Hank Aaron’s initials and his number ‘44’.

3. Pattern Design Exploration

4. Children’s Narrative/Storytelling

5. Composition reads across all bats. Just spin them around for the full effect!