Manju adores the work of Kampala-based Uganda artist Charlene Komuntale whose paintings explore storytelling, femininity, strength and beauty of black women. In her recent series “Not Fragile”, Komuntale portrays women - mostly black African women. The subject matter is personal yet presented in a relatable way as inspiration is drawn from her own experiences but also informed by the experiences of other women around her. The heads of the women she portrays are covered by different elements, which create poetic yet striking narratives around a broadly relatable figure. . ‘As a child, I wanted to be a cartoon character because of the endless possibilities, unconfined to gravity or form. Fortunately, that didn’t happen. But that whimsical thinking led me to pursue a degree in animation where I fell in love with concept art which allows me to express my visions’ says Charlene. . Charlene Komuntale’s (@charlenekomuntale) work will be presented by Afriart Gallery (@afriartgallery) as part of 1-54 artfair (@154artfair) in London. The fair is on view at Somerset House (@somersethouse) until 16 October,2022. Explore more here : https://www.1-54.com/london/ . Image 1 Wine Dresses,2022 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery Image 2 Royal Dresses,2021 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery Image 3 Olive Dress, 2022 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery Image 4 Autumn Dresses, 2021 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery Image 5 Yellow Dress, 2021 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery Image 6 Purple Dress, 2021 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery Image 7 The Same Dress,2022 Courtesy of the artist and Afriart Gallery . #manjujournal #154artfair #charlenekomuntale #afriartgallery #somersethouse #femaleartist #Africa #Kampala #Uganda #emergingartist