Growing up with a mixed heritage sparked my passion for creating art that fosters dialogue, tolerance, and harmony between diverse communities. My academic journey—culminating in an MA in Visual Communication from the RCA and an MFA in Painting from the Slade—has strengthened this drive. My work explores themes of memory, identity, belonging, nature, and intuition, often using a blend of archival imagery, historical art references, fashion magazines, and, most intimately, personal photos of my body or people I know. I invite viewers into my world through these layers, offering a space to reflect on our connections.
My work is deeply rooted in my dual heritage. I use this blend of cultural influences to explore my childhood memories and perceptions of the world. Growing up in an environment that celebrated diverse racial backgrounds has shaped my commitment to fostering conversations that promote tolerance, empathy, and unity.
My art weaves personal and societal narratives, delving into themes of female empowerment, the divine feminine, mythology, and the sublime. I use a variety of artistic approaches, from archival imagery and historical art references to magazine clippings and personal photographs, to create compositions that reflect the interconnectedness of people, nature, and self. Each element is carefully chosen to express the nuances of my lived experience, inviting viewers to engage with the complex layers of identity, memory, and shared humanity. Ultimately, my work is driven by the hope that art can inspire a more empathetic and unified world.
Latifah A 