Working to help end systemic racism in our society is a lifelong process and commitment. But here's one thing you can do today: Use purchasing power to support the movement—and make your walls happy—by buying one of these gorgeous and impactful prints by Black female artists.
Then, pledge that you'll to continue to follow, support, and collect art from these women and other artists of color on a go forward, with a goal to make underrepresentation in the art world a castoff of the distant past.
British artist and illustrator Charlotte Edey combines iconography and surreal landscapes into ethereal pastel-toned dream scenes that are truly transporting. In the words of Charlotte, Ice "explores the absence of self" and "an attempt to find peace in melancholy." We're also coveting one of her woven jacquard tapestries or hand-embroidered miniature tapestries, which would both look amazing framed.
Powerful symbolism, bold geometric elements, and 24 karat gold leaf details compose Michelle Robinson's Prevail poster. Michelle describes her hopeful image as a reminder that collective strength can lead to transformation. Proceeds from all of Michelle's print and painting sales go toward building the MR Visual Arts Award Fund, which awards funds for tuition, workshops, retreats or residencies for BIPOC women who are emerging in the field of visual arts.
Los Angeles based graphic-designer-turned-ceramicist-turned-printmaker Kenesha Sneed is a master of form, whether it's a stoneware creation thrown on the wheel or the abstract figures that grace her colorful prints (and tapestries). We are thrilled there's a way to add her quirky style to your home via your kitchen shelves—and your walls.
4. Justina Blakeney, The World Over
Justina Blakeney of The Jungalow has pioneered the styling of luscious, well lived-in interiors bursting with vibrancy and color. This circular bright composition, The World Over, invites a sense of discovery and and unity. Pair Jungalow prints or original artwork with plants—no such thing as too many!
Shantell Martin's bold black and white line drawings invite the viewer into a study of consciousness. Known for large-scale installations, we're grateful for the option to live with Shantell's scaled-down prints in our own homes. Nocturne, set against a night sky, is a fitting scene for the dreamy concepts she explores. Don't miss her lithographs and original artwork, also for sale on her website.
Uzo Njoku's career took off while she was still a student, when she had the idea to design a coloring book representing women of color. Expecting to sell only a couple hundred copies, she wound up selling thousands. Today, the Nigerian-born artist offers a selection of prints showcasing her textural portraits made with oil paint, acrylic, and elements of collage.
7. Michelle Lisa Polissaint via FFS Photo
Based in Miami, Florida, visual artist and artist organizer Michelle Lisa Polissaint examines the nature of human interaction through her textiles and photographs. Raised by Haitian immigrants, Michelle deeply understands the lack of access to legal representation that marginalized communities face. All proceeds from the sale of this photograph on FFS photo will support the Community Justice Project in Miami.
8. Morgan Harper Nichols, Not Alone
Morgan Harper Nichols' colorful Instagram feed has a keen way of serving us exactly the words of wisdom we need, right when we need them. Phrases like "You made it another hour..." and "The sun is still rising" ring especially true during quarantine, and are available as prints in her online shop. Frame this one in our Natural Gallery frame for an instant pick me up.
9. Thee Bouffants, Pink Leopard Print
We're big fans of illustrator Kendra Dandy's—AKA @theebouffants—whimsical and unique aesthetic. Personality abounds in the form of Sassy Oranges in A Bowl or her series of glamorous cheetahs who are not amused (see: Spa Day Cheetah). Dandy also offers original artwork on her website.
Debra Cartwright's figure paintings depict the femininity, vulnerability, and humanity of black women. While her brushstrokes are light, her subjects are deeply moving and encourage discussion of the strong black woman trope still prevalent in society.
We'd love to hear from you about other artists or prints we should feature! Reach out to us at hello@simplyframed.com.
