To me, culture is made up of different aspects that come together to shape an individual - traditions, beliefs, behaviours etc. 

When I think of culture, I think of food - ackee and saltfish, oxtail, rice and peas, plantain, breadfruit, jerk chicken…the best of the best caribbean food. 

When I think of culture, I think of music. Whilst I’m a 90s R&B girl at heart, I also love the reggae sounds of Morgan Heritage, Beres Hammond, Bob Marley and Richie spice. 

When I think of culture, I think of style. Black people have significantly influenced global fashion trends, particularly in hairstyles. From braids and afros to baby hair and weaves, our creative hair styles reflect our heritage and individuality. It’s our crown! 

The Exhibition

I got to participate in the “for the culture” exhibition where I had the privilege of showcasing two paintings that represented culture.

“Black Butterfly” : a painting that is all about embracing the skin you’re in. This bold piece celebrates black beauty and self-expression. The young woman with her locs and jewellery freely and proudly embraces her identity.

“Her Heritage” : a painting that honours the strength of the women that came before us. The woman carrying a bowl of fruit on her head represents the enduring spirit of women of my heritage who faced adversity but still persevered.

It‘s ashame that exhibitions like this don’t happen very often in Birmingham but to be apart of it when it does is a very special feeling. I’m glad that my paintings had the opportunity to be shown in an exhibition so fitting to what my art represents.