I use my work to navigate the Black identity through the lens of trauma, racism, and colonialism. Primarily focusing on the Black male, I utilise my perspective to depict Black masculinity with a sense of narrative, shedding light on the Black experience. Exploring themes such as afro-pessimism and prejudice, I reference their direct connection to colonisation, and the various ways these problems can manifest within modern society. Using symbols and loaded imagery, I allow the viewer to search for meaning, enabling interrogation and connection with the work. Empathy and sensitivity are at the core of my practice, using colour and light to convey emotional turmoil. I aim to redefine the portrayal of black men through the use of oil painting, a medium traditionally reserved to perpetuate western ideals.
Artist Statement
Artist Biography
Selena Scott is a 23 year old painter from Cambridge, UK. After obtaining her A-Levels at Hills Road Sixth Form College, and UAL Foundation Diploma at Cambridge Regional College, she has continued her studies to the Slade School of Fine Art, UCL. Taking inspiration from the theories of Frantz Fanon in his books ‘The Wretched of the Earth’ and ‘Black Skin, White Masks’, Scott primarily focuses on the socially normalised preconception to associate 'black' with 'wrong'. Her work feeds from many resources, especially rap, music videos and film, taking these forms of black expression and displaying the omnipresence of our shared struggles. She primarily uses oil paints on canvas, however her practice extends to film, textiles and digital animation.
Most recent exhibitions include FitzFest, Fitzwilliam Museum; AOAP x War Child, Soho Revue; Sennen Summer Fayre, Cornwall; Era 2022,The Crypt Gallery, London; and #ThisisBlack TikTok, Truman Brewery, London.
