Krystle Lemonias

University of South Florida

Eeh, Hole Still!, 2020
baby clothes and woodblock relief on fabric, 56 x 34 inches

Tell us about the work that you have submitted.
Caribbean people's resilience to provide for their families captivates and fuels my work. Here, I critically examine the experiences of women who have immigrated from predominantly Black Caribbean nations and been employed as nannies. The work contemplates the social and economic complexities of race, gender, class, and citizenship.

What motivated you to apply to the AXA Art Prize?
I applied because I admired what AXA Art Prize represents, its established credibility in the UK, and its mission to showcasing emerging figurative artists. Its jury process exposes my work to top curators from renowned museums. Not to mention the top prizes that would support my education and art career.

With the pandemic forcing the world to rethink how we keep moving forward, do you feel encouraged or inspired in your own studio practice to persevere despite these challenges?
Issues surrounding essential workers during the pandemic encouraged me to continue my visual research of Black Caribbean women who work as nannies. I realized my work's relevance as well as how it brings forward the experiences of people that aren't often appreciated but are crucial to the function of society.

Website: www.krystlelemonias.com
Instagram: @empress1989kl