ARTIST STATEMENT
Sichumile Adam (b. 2001) is an emerging visual artist based in Johannesburg, South Africa. She recently graduated from the University of the Witwatersrand with an Honours degree in Fine Arts.
A multidisciplinary artist, Sichumile primarily works with acrylic paint, fabric, and glass beads.
She combines elements of contemporary African American and South African imagery to create a visual landscape that resonates with women across the Black diaspora. Through carefully curated poses, the figures in her paintings explore and celebrate womanhood, drawing from both personal and collective experiences as a Black woman.
“My art is a citation of Black women and cultural production. I find that we are often a reference point but don’t necessarily get cited for it. By paying homage to Black women, I hope my art serves as a stepping stone toward greater recognition of all that we contribute.”
Her use of beads and fabric further celebrates her cultural heritage, adding texture and dimension to her work. This enhances the viewing experience, encouraging close engagement with her paintings and inviting exploration of the intricate beading styles and techniques.
“Many cultural movements, like pop culture and shweshwe culture, originate in Black communities and are shaped by Black women. I want my work to be a playground for exploring these influences. I also enjoy using my art to examine the dynamic social cultures that women share globally, but from a South African perspective.”
Education
2020–2023: Honours Degree in Fine Arts, University of the Witwatersrand
Art Fairs
2025: Investec Cape Town Art Fair, South Africa
2024: RMB Latitudes Art Fair, Johannesburg, South Africa
