Thrilled to have Jamea Richmond-Edwards as part of our "Artists We Love" series. She is the recipient of the Joan Mitchell foundation residency in New Orleans this year. 

Jamea Richmond-Edwards was born and raised in Detroit, MI. She graduated with a Bachelors of Art degree from Jackson State University in 2004 where she studied painting and drawing. She went on to earn a MFA in Painting from Howard University in 2012.  Jamea has exhibited her artwork nationally and internationally including the Rubell Family Collection and California African American Museum. She currently resides in Maryland with her husband and their three sons. 

You showcase a truth largely omitted by society and tone-deaf fashion brands with regards to women of colour being excluded from advertising campaigns in your artwork. What inspired you to focus on this subject for your paintings?

My paintings are mostly autobiographical and inspired by the lived experiences of the people closest to me. We’re too often provided a very limited scope of Black American experiences and representation across the board, so I feel really compelled to share my paintings and ideas that can provide nuance to American Art History. 

Congratulations on being awarded the Joan Mitchell Foundation residency, how important is this residency for you as an artist? 

Thank you! It’s so timely for me at the moment because I’m embarking on so many new adventures in my studio practice. I’ve been experimenting with new materials and exploring my family’s Southern origins for my new body of work, so the timing and location perfectly aligns with my studio trajectory. 
It’s such a privilege to be a part of this residency, I can’t wait to truly maximize the experience.  

How important is mentorship for an artist navigating the art world?

I honestly think mentorship is the most important aspect of navigating the art world : both giving and receiving it. I can give my personal testimony of how my mentors continue to push me forward and how I learn and receive support from those I mentored. It’s a cyclical relationship.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as an artist? Do you still face these challenges or have you managed to overcome them?

One of my recent challenges has been the uncertainty of having a secure affordable long term studio space. I haven’t fully overcome that challenge, but I’m becoming more proactive and intentional about obtaining that security. 

What is your advice for women entering the art world?

Be unapologetic 

What quote do you live by? 

I am because we are