Presenting

A Black Actress - An Exhibition

A BFI study researching the representation of Black Actors in UK film showed that from 2006 to 2016 only 5 women out of the total of 15 Black actors had played two or more lead roles and with demand for seeing representation in front and behind the camera, the push for diversity is at an all-time high,

This exhibition aims to fulfil that need. As a showcase for the diversity of Black women on screen and on stage it is a chance for us to celebrate the Black women.  

Black women who are working to better the representation we see and highlighting the beauty of Black womanhood.

With each actress bringing their own personality and style to help create these stunning images, the result is a reflection of the wealth of beauty within Black womanhood. One that we don't often see.

Lolly Adefope, Joan Iyiola, Jade Anouka, Jennifer Saayeng, Amara Okereke, Vanessa Vanderpuye, Susan Wokoma, Gemma Knight Jones, Tamara Lawrance, Ashley Bannerman, Faith Alabi, Adele Oni

"It’s a new archive of our presence. And it is gorgeous."

   Tamara Lawrance - Award winning actress

Having started the project through self funding, and working to secure grant funding, I am asking for contributions towards showcasing the work already created.

In supporting the A Black Actress exhibition you will be part of the conversation in changing the perceptions of how we see and celebrate Black women. A successful exhibit such as this  will be a springboard to create further works around Black female representation in other UK sectors not just the arts.

Help showcase A Black Actress to the worl .

With a goal of £7,500 your contribution goes towards:

• The printing and framing of the art work.
• Securing a gallery space befitting of the portraits and it’s sitters 
• The installation and deinstalling of the prints work.
• Creating a memorable opening night that is open to the public. 
• Ensuring the exhibition will be open for one week in a central London location

Don’t worry if you are unable to make a financial contribution to help reach this goal. Here are a few other ways you can support:

You can share the #ABlackActress hashtag on your social media platforms; including  Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Amplify to your friends and family and help get the word out.

Follow on Instagram: @a_black_actress   /  Twitter: @a_black_actress

Subscribe at www.ablackactress,com to keep up to date with what's happening.

In appreciation for supporting and contributing you can receive the following perks.

10x8 Art Print

11 x14 Signed Art Print

A Limited Edition Coffee Table Book

A Studio Portrait shoot 

And last but not least without the initial creative team - who passionately and humbly shared their time and expertise this project would have not come as far.

So I want to say a big thank you to them and to you for helping bring "A Black Actress" to life

The Creative Team Behind The Looks:

Lauraine Bailey has worked in the creative industry as a Fashion Stylist & Hair Stylist for several years. Her skills have been developed through Advertising, TV & Film, Music, E-commerce and Editorial print. Experienced in both women's & menswear, still-life and interior styling, Lauraine works to a high standard paying much attention to detail.

Jane Sinclair is a professional make up artist and bespoke beauty specialist, whose work appears regularly in Tatler and Hello! Her prestigious list of celebrity and society clients is testimony to her skill of bringing out the absolute best in everyone, without them ever looking ‘made up’.

Claire Degraft a 15 year veteran with work that often appears in top fashion publications including Tatler, Harpers Bazaar, Elle, Vogue to name a few. She has worked with an extensive list of celebrities, public personalities, international designers, as well as heading various LFW fashion shows as head makeup artist. 

Sam Lascelle displays a strong intuitive passion as a Makeup Artist and with over 10 years of experience in the industry. She is self taught and continually developing creatively; Sam has worked for a world renowned cosmetics brand, where she became a part of their Pro Team and Artist Relations department, representing and showcasing her skills.

Edyta Betka a professional nail artist she has worked on major fashion shows during London Fashion Week for the likes of  Alice Temperly and Emilia Wickstead as well as having work published in magazines such as Marie Claire and Wonderland to name a few.

A Little About Me...

“A Black Actress” was shot and curated by myself, Shonay Shote. I’m a London based fashion and beauty photographer, with over 10 years’ experience in the industry working in online and print media. As a Black woman, I have been privileged to have my work featured in Pride magazine, and shoot with film and fashion personalities including Leomie Anderson, and Melanie Liburd. I am working to help create better representations of Black women in the visual arts. I went into photography to create a sense of beauty in the world through my own lens and hope this project reflects that.

Film Credits: Blue Sera Productions / Genuine Outrageous Design

Music by Quincas Moreira Genre