Barnet college student's sculpture picked for display at prestigious exhibition

Artwork celebrating the “complex beauty” of Afro hair chosen by the Royal Academy of Arts for its summer show

Sachelle Davis with her sculpture 'Roots of Resilience' (credit Royal Academy of Arts) — Sachelle Davis with her sculpture ‘Roots of Resilience’ (credit Royal Academy of Arts)

A Barnet college student’s sculpture celebrating the “complex beauty” of Afro hair is now on display at the Royal Academy of Arts.

Roots of Resilience, a striking ceramic sculpture by 17-year-old Barnet and Southgate College art and design student Sachelle Davis, is on free public display at the prestigious institution in Piccadilly after being selected from over 25,000 national submissions.

The piece is said to stand “as a powerful, tactile exploration of identity, heritage, and the cultural narrative” surrounding Afro hair.

Explaining the idea behind her sculpture, Sachelle, who lives in New Southgate, says: “This piece explores the beauty and complexity of Afro hair, using form and texture to highlight both personal identity and wider cultural narratives.

“Through the sculpted coils and patterns, the work reflects on the struggles many people have faced in seeking acceptance. The piece becomes a celebration of resilience and pride.”

Sachelle created the sculpture during her studies at Barnet and Southgate College’s High Barnet campus. It is now part of a curated selection displayed on site at the Royal Academy of Arts’ Weston Studio in Burlington House, Piccadilly.

The Royal Academy’s eighth annual Young Artists’ Summer Show is a highly-celebrated platform championing the UK’s next generation of creative minds.

To view Roots of Resilience and vote to help the North London college student secure this year’s public award:
Visit Royal Academy’s exhibition portal

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