Ufuoma Essi, a dynamic and versatile video artist and filmmaker hailing from the vibrant borough of Lewisham, situated in the heart of South East London, has cultivated a distinct creative identity that seamlessly blends the realms of film, moving image, photography, and sound.
Ufuoma's artistic endeavors are deeply rooted in the philosophical framework of Black feminist epistemology, which serves as the foundation for her creative process. This paradigmatic influence is evident in her deliberate reconfiguration of forgotten and displaced histories, a process that is facilitated through the strategic utilization of archives as a medium.
Through this innovative approach, Ufuoma sets out to critically scrutinize and disrupt the prevailing silences and gaps that persist in political and historical narratives. Her ultimate goal is to reorient the dominant discourse, thereby re-centering the marginalized histories of the Black Atlantic and specific histories of black women.
By doing so, Ufuoma's work seeks to challenge the dominant narratives that have long excluded and marginalized the experiences and perspectives of black women, and to instead amplify their voices and stories. Through her art, she aims to create a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of history, one that acknowledges the agency and subjectivity of black women and their contributions to the broader narrative of the Black Atlantic.
Ufuoma's creative endeavors are deeply rooted in a diverse array of influences, with a profound fascination for black popular culture, films, music, historical texts, and black feminist theory, as exemplified by the groundbreaking works of notable writers such as Claudia Jones and Daphne Brooks.
Moreover, her artistic practice delves into the complex historical and contemporary connections between the Black Atlantic, skillfully navigating intersectional themes that weave together the intricate threads of race, gender, class, and sexuality, resulting in a rich tapestry of thought-provoking art.
Notable films created by Ufuoma have garnered significant attention and acclaim by being prominently featured at a diverse range of esteemed film festivals, institutions, and galleries situated within the United Kingdom and beyond its borders.
Ufuoma has not only pursued a career in the arts, but has also ventured into the realm of freelance film programming, forging partnerships with esteemed institutions such as the iconic Barbican and the esteemed Bernie Grant Arts Centre.
Furthermore, she is an integral part of the South London Gallery-based collective, Narration Group, which is comprised of black women and people of color, including non-binary individuals. Within this collective, Ufuoma has had the opportunity to co-curate exhibitions and develop public programs, showcasing her multifaceted talents and dedication to her craft.
