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Shakira Hunt

Wilmington

Established
Visual Arts: Photography

By: Gail Obenreder

“My art is a profound reflection of the diverse and intricate layers that shape the Black experience. Central to my artistic philosophy is authenticity.”

As a child, Shakira Hunt found “solace in drawing and depicting images of the concept of home.” The oldest of three siblings, Hunt found that her creativity afforded a “sanctuary, offering a safe space where I could voice my emotions when words failed me.” Not surprisingly, as a young adult she pursued a degree in Interior Design, first in Wilmington at Delaware College of Art and Design, then receiving her BFA from Philadelphia’s Moore College of Art and Design.

Hunt immediately found work at an architecture and design firm, but she began to realize that “my work was too ‘9-to-5’ and I felt creatively unfulfilled.” Growing up in Wilmington – where she still lives – Hunt had loved exploring her grandfather’s “cool treasures . . . boxes of old photos . . . rolls of film, or camera parts, lenses that were detached.” As she played with them, she was constantly trying to figure out how to get them all to work.

When she decided to seek a “passion project,” looking for the satisfaction she wasn’t finding in her job, it was these childhood memories that led Hunt to explore photography. It wasn’t long before “I purchased a starter camera and dove in the practice with openness and curiosity.”

Her belief in the importance of strong cultural photographic references came from the inspiring images of Tyler Mitchell and Gordon Parks. In her work, Hunt also accesses her design background to “understand space and composition” to complement her photographic skills as she works to “bring forth strong narratives.” The evocative series that garnered Hunt her Division fellowship depicts the resilience and strength of her subjects, “juxtaposed with subtleties and softness” through a creative and intuitive use of fabrics and flowers.

Hunt is consistently challenging herself to “evoke emotions, ignite conversations, and create space for healing.” To do this, she explores “themes of identity, gender, trauma, joy, and culture” that are both universal and yet “fully introspective. “Though this work is about me and for me, it’s also equally NOT about me . . .  [it’s] for my community.” This is a delicate balance, but Hunt is rewarded by the “truth telling, creative expression, and gratitude” that she finds in sensitively portraying her subjects.

The profession she left behind has never disappeared, though. Her creative education and design background continue to influence the shape of her photography. Hunt notes that “art direction and storytelling are probably my favorite parts about any of my projects.”

Her most recent photography series was “birthed in the pandemic, out of curiosity for play and connection,” with little expectation that it would evolve to be so powerful or affirming. As an independent artist, Hunt states that “it is not always easy to navigate life in this space full-time.” The Division’s award will provide her “access to capital and funding” that will support her continuing creative endeavors. “It is truly such a blessing!”

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