Black Blossoms Studio Residency supported by Kudzanai-Violet Hwami.
Nurturing the next generation of Black women and non-binary artists.
Kudzanai-Violet Hwami, ‘Yellow Fever,’ 2016, pencil and watercolour on canvas.
In 2016, Black Blossoms proudly launched its inaugural exhibition at UAL High Holborn, a landmark moment dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black women artists who have historically been silenced or overlooked. This groundbreaking showcase celebrated the creative brilliance and cultural narratives of these artists, positioning their work at the forefront of contemporary art discourse.
Among the featured artists was Kudzanai-Violet Hwami, whose standout piece, Yellow Fever, captivated audiences with its bold Afro-futuristic vision of an African utopia. Drawing on memories of post-colonial Zimbabwe and reflecting her experiences across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and England, the artwork delves into themes of identity, spirituality, gender, and displacement. Through Yellow Fever, Kudzanai reimagined the Black Zimbabwean body, framing it as a powerful symbol of resilience and transformation.
Recognising this exhibition as a significant milestone in her career, Kudzanai-Violet Hwami has partnered with Black Blossoms to launch an inspiring new studio residency programme that celebrates and supports the next generation of emerging Black women and non-binary artists.
The residency offers three months of full access to a large studio space, as well as mentoring and studio visits from leading curators, writers, and art professionals. We are thrilled to provide the selected artists with essential resources, guidance, and opportunities to explore new ideas, refine their practices, and develop their unique artistic voices.
Selected Artists
Ariel Collier (she/they), originally from South Florida, is a conceptual artist, poet, researcher and curator currently based in London. Collier’s work challenges alienation and estrangement, using multiple mediums and collective organising to shift public understanding of black queer culture towards our inner worlds, reflections and ideas around living more liberated and sustainable lives. Collier is the founder of Home Studio, a nomadic space dedicated to the promotion, empowerment and development of queer and trans global majority artists by hosting workshops, CRITS, making sessions and exhibitions. Graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Visual Arts and Emerging Media Management as well as a MA from SOAS London in History Art, Collier’s focus has lied in African diasporic philosophy, spirituality and art. Collier is currently apart of an alternative MFA programme entitled School of the Damned, as well as an arts and health trainingship with the Artists Represent Recovery Network supported by Arts Council England.
Ariel Collier, I Want To Be In Your Space, 2023. Collage on handmade paper.
Website: www.arielcollier.com Instagram: @arieltheartisan / @135homestudio
Jemila Isa is a contemporary British artist who explores the experiences and shared expectations of African women through the lens of religion. Her work examines the delicate interplay between cultural heritage and Christianity, highlighting themes of conformity, resilience, and identity. Isa’s art extends beyond individual portrayals, offering a broader commentary on the Church’s societal role in African communities and its profound impact on women’s lives in Africa and the diaspora.
Jemila Isa, ‘Seven,’ 2024, Oil on paper.
Website: www.jemilaisa.com Instagram: @jemilaisa
Yvonne E. Maxwell is a Saint Lucian-Nigerian, self-taught documentary photographer and writer. A 2023 Portrait of Britain Award winner, she focuses on migration, social justice, and identity within Black communities in the UK. Her work delves into cultural dynamics, family relationships, and human rights across the African and Caribbean diasporas. Employing photography, narrative, and film, Maxwell critiques society and reflects on its past, present, and future. Since starting in 2019, she has collaborated with The Wellcome Collection, Vittles, SUITCASE Magazine, and Open City, among others.
Yvonne E Maxwell ‘Peckham Rye,’ 2022
Website: www.yvonne-maxwell.com Instagram: @yvonne.emaxwell
Black Blossoms would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Kudzanai-Violet Hwami and her Studio Manager, Antonio for supporting this residency.