Faculty of Design

Illustration

Sydney Allen

Jubilant Ebony: Pop Culture's Frontier

Jubilant Ebony: Redefining Pop Culture delves into the dynamic realm where Black Femininity reshapes societal norms, challenging conventions in beauty standards, cultural identity, and creative expression. This vibrant exploration celebrates its profound cultural influence, illuminating its indelible mark on contemporary society.

“Illustration 1: I’m That GirlAn editorial celebration of black feminism through pop culture phenomenon, with easter egg references of various iconic moments in the music, beauty and fashion industry.Illustration 2: Crown & GloryYoung Black girls are encouraged to cherish their unique hair, finding pride in its beauty. Oprah's words, "your hair is your crown and glory", emphasize the importance of embracing natural hair with reverence using the iconic ‘pick’ hair tool as synthesised within the braids..Illustration 3: Backstage PassA fun tribute to the remarkable women who've pioneered theatre, breaking barriers for Black actresses to take on 'white' roles in iconic Broadway shows like Wicked and Chicago. Their trailblazing extends to black centric stories, exemplified by works like Dreamgirls, which have garnered widespread acclaim all the while fostering a strong sisterhood among all.Illustration 4: Ready, Set, SlayA homage to Florence Griffith Joyner, who made history as an American track and field athlete with iconic long, eccentric nails that never stopped her from being the fastest ever recorded. Her legacy challenged the societal rules of what’s acceptable in women’s sports, and proved you can still be stylish and win a gold medal or two.Illustration 5: Sista, SistaInspired by vintage barber shop catalogues, ‘Sista, Sista’ surrounds the salon culture, and how hair brings women together, through products, experiences- It is a representation of the safe space that was created by black women and for black women.Illustration 6: Film NoirDelve into the realm behind the camera, spotlighting the pioneering work of Black filmmakers, writers, and actors who have built legacies within the film industry. Specifically, we celebrate Ava DuVernay, a renowned director, producer, and screenwriter, alongside Shonda Rhimes, the creative force behind beloved TV series like Grey’s Anatomy, How to Get Away With Murder, and Bridgerton. Additionally, we honour Viola Davis for her captivating performance in Fences, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and sparked a viral acceptance speech.Illustration 7: Shade MatchA film noir x james bond inspired piece, inspired by the evolution of shade availability made in the beauty industry, becoming more accessible to women of colour.Illustration 8: Senator BarbieInspired by the modern children’s toy having more variance in appearances, creating a visual representation of a doll that looks just like them, further sparking inspiration in their future endeavours- Shirley Chisholm, was the first African American woman in Congress (1968) and the first woman and African American to seek the nomination for president of the United States from one of the two major political parties (1972) all the while, remaining consistent and outspoken on her advocacy for women and minorities during her seven terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.”