Curated by Black Blossoms in partnership with Kensington and Chelsea Art Week, we, Bokani and Birungi Kawooya collaborated on a mural that portrays Black womxn in a state of relaxation against a mesmerizing backdrop.
We aimed to skillfully depict our subjects' peaceful and serene moments amidst an entrancing setting, creating a captivating atmosphere that heightens the contemplative mood of the piece. Through our art, we sought to showcase the beauty and importance of rest and rejuvenation in the lives of Black womxn. The mural invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the dreamy and thought-provoking world that we have created.
To learn more about the project, you can read our full interview on the Black Blossoms Journal.
This project is funded by Untold Stories, part of the Mayor of London’s Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm.
“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for collaborating with Black Blossoms last year. The impact of your mural on Freston Road is still resonating, providing both residents and passersby with ample opportunities for contemplation on the themes of rest and reflection.
On a personal note, last year marked the first summer I deliberately stepped back from actively pursuing new projects. It was a challenging period – tears were shed, my body felt weary, and my mind raced incessantly. Amidst these struggles, I contemplated the call to Black womxn to rest and reflect. I realised that, despite the systemic barriers rooted in capitalism, a more profound internal wall existed – a feeling of unworthiness to prioritise self-care, fill my cup, and embark on a healing journey from within.
Following the installation of your mural and as I started to decline new work, I embarked on a transformative journey encompassing fitness, health, and, most importantly, rest. Bokani and Birungi, your artistic expression advocating for
Black womxn to embrace rest brought me to a heightened state of consciousness, a realisation that only became apparent during my reflections in 2023.
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