belonging
artists navigating identity in the african diaspora
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Belonging delves into the depths of a transformative journey, drawing inspiration from key theorists such as Bell Hooks and W. E. B. Du Bois. Through these works, we explore diverse perspectives and artistic expressions that illuminate the intricate relationship between art and the quest for identity within the African diaspora.
Moving beyond visual allure, these artworks serve as poignant messengers, urging systemic reform, the preservation of connections in diasporic communities, and a collective plea for humanity in the face of adversity. Drawing from Bell Hooks, we emphasize the power of art to authentically engage with the complexities of identity rather than the singularity of ‘being black’. The Starving Artist aims to encourage reflection on the profound impact of belonging and identity formation through the lived-in experiences of artists to examine more in-depth what it means to navigate African diasporic identity in the 21st century.
Moving beyond visual allure, these artworks serve as poignant messengers, urging systemic reform, the preservation of connections in diasporic communities, and a collective plea for humanity in the face of adversity. Drawing from Bell Hooks, we emphasize the power of art to authentically engage with the complexities of identity rather than the singularity of ‘being black’. The Starving Artist aims to encourage reflection on the profound impact of belonging and identity formation through the lived-in experiences of artists to examine more in-depth what it means to navigate African diasporic identity in the 21st century.
Marshall, Shayla. (2022). There's a Beach in my Hood, [Photography].
Moore, Gabrielle. (2023). See No Evil, [Mixed Media on Canvas], 72" x 51".
Belonging provides a beautiful and insightful collection of works that explore diverse artistic perspectives. Each sheds light on the complex relationship between art and examining different perspectives on belonging in the African diaspora. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these artworks convey profound messages, collectively expressing evolving identities and challenging historical narratives with innovation. They compellingly call for systemic reform and emphasize the crucial preservation of connections within diasporic communities. Ultimately, these artworks serve as a powerful testament to humanity's imperative in navigating the intricate journey of identity within the African diaspora.
featured artists
Shishupal Patel | Jodhpur, India | @pencilartiste
Mncobi Mndzebele | Mbabane, Swaziland |
@mncobimndzebele_art
Khalid Alarabi| Doha, Qatar | @khalid_alarabi
Gabrielle Moore | Barbados | @gabriellechantel
Sasha Corrodus Odom | Jamacia | @mindfireart
Mncobi Mndzebele | Mbabane, Swaziland |
@mncobimndzebele_art
Khalid Alarabi| Doha, Qatar | @khalid_alarabi
Gabrielle Moore | Barbados | @gabriellechantel
Sasha Corrodus Odom | Jamacia | @mindfireart
Tabaton-Osbourne | Carrara, Italy | @tabatonosbourne
Estifanos Solomon | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | @Estif_solomon17
Shayla Marshall | London, UK | @shaylamonii
Jeffrey Berg | Washington, DC USA | @jeffcberg
Nicole Goodwin | New York, USA | @goodw.y.n9
George Yewande| Lagos, Nigeria | @geomysterion.creativedesign
Estifanos Solomon | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | @Estif_solomon17
Shayla Marshall | London, UK | @shaylamonii
Jeffrey Berg | Washington, DC USA | @jeffcberg
Nicole Goodwin | New York, USA | @goodw.y.n9
George Yewande| Lagos, Nigeria | @geomysterion.creativedesign
The formation of a diaspora could be articulated as the quintessential journey into becoming; a process marked by incessant regroupings, recreations, and reiteration.
- Okwui Enwezor
Berg, Jeffrey. (2023). Diaspora Dawn, [Drawing, Color Pencil on Paper], 34” x 36”.