Celebrating Creativity and Heritage: A Conversation with Juneteenth Art Contest Winner, Kolbi Wright

We are thrilled to introduce Kolbi Wright, the talented winner of our Juneteenth Art Contest, "Honoring Our History Through Art." With a unique and captivating style, Kolbi's collage artistry deeply resonates with the historical and cultural significance of Juneteenth. Her work not only reflects her personal journey and experiences but also embodies the spirit of commemoration and reflection.

Dive into our conversation with Kolbi to uncover the inspirations and aspirations behind her art.

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue a career in art?

Kolbi shared, I am a collage artist from New Jersey, now residing in Atlanta, Georgia. My grandmother, Pamela Wright, was instrumental in nurturing my appreciation for art. From a young age, we engaged in various arts and crafts and frequented local art museums. Although I don't pursue art full-time, the pandemic spurred me to focus more intentionally on my craft. My art became a crucial outlet during a time of isolation, leading me to share and monetize it through local markets and custom orders."

We asked Kolbi what themes she explores in her artwork and why they are important to her.

"My fascination with collage began with inspiring exhibitions like Janet Taylor Pickett’s 'The Matisse Series' and Joyce J Scott’s 'Harriet Tubman and Other Truths.' These experiences taught me about the healing power of art. In my own work, I delve into life's paradoxes—the beauty and the pain. My goal is to use collage as a tool for self-expression and to create visibility for stories that often go untold, particularly focusing on social justice and mental health."

How has your practice evolved over the years?

"Starting as a simple pastime with my grandma, my practice has blossomed into a more serious pursuit. We participated in social media challenges like 'Februllage,' which brought us closer during the pandemic and expanded my interest in digital collages. This evolution from analog to digital is something I cherish and plan to continue developing."

We asked Kolbi to walk us through her creative process for the winning piece in the Juneteenth Art Contest.

Kolbi detailed a three-step process: discovering, designing, and delivering.

"I began by researching to ensure a deep understanding of Juneteenth. Then, using a mix of magazine cutouts and fabric, I designed my collage to tell a visual story, layering images to depict both beauty and pain. Documenting each step was crucial, as it allowed me to maintain the integrity of the design through to the final gluing and presentation."

What role do you believes artists play in society, especially regarding significant historical events like Juneteenth.

"Artists have a duty to reflect the times," Kolbi stated, echoing Nina Simone's famous words. ‘My artwork is a reflection of my life experiences and my perception of the world.’ It's crucial for artists to lead and innovate, using our platforms to support causes like social justice and mental health. Through my art, I aim to honor our past and inspire hope for a better future."

Kolbi’s passion and thoughtful approach to her art not only celebrates the African diaspora's history, but also prompts reflection and conversation about our society's pivotal moments.