In February I was lucky enough to be apart of an exhibition organised by our Leeds Arts Union and Afro Caribbean society but curated by Natasha Clarke. It was an exhibition made for our B.A.M.E students to celebrate the amazing talent that is in our University and society. We had photographers, textiles artists, Animators, fine artists and many more taking part in this exhibition that showcased raw talent. An opening night took place on 20th February at Leeds Corn Exchange, where everyone’s work stayed on display until 25th February. The night consisted of mingling, connecting, talking about our craft with local creatives and our friends.
Food, live music and singers created a lovely atmosphere with everyone networking and coming together to celebrate work. I submitted four A3 prints for the 2020 exhibition, it was my first public exhibition displaying my work and it was small milestone as a creative. I gained exposure and more of a following on my Instagram through networking and having my social media name on my plaque below my work.
Being able to connect with my peers and others who study different courses will benefit for future projects or collaborations, such as modelling, styling and group projects/ideas. It was an amazing night and was a small achievement having my work out for people to see and a start in regards to getting my name out there. The body of work that was exhibited was called ‘Black Beauty’ that celebrates melanin and black excellence, using muses with a darker complexion to abolish colourism in the fashion industry ; I wanted this body of work to empower and capture ‘Black Beauty’.
I really enjoyed this experience and would love to take part in another event or exhibition, that displays new projects of mine. Attending exhibitions as well as being apart of them is a great way to build your connections with others and experience.
EllaMaeWardpp1 