I sat at my kitchen table, wearing stained sweatpants, an old T-shirt and raggedy headscarf and idly watched Georgia, my designated make-up artiste of the evening, prepare the tools of her trade. I pondered the mammoth task she had before her.
Ah! Such optimism in youth.
Kitchen table take over in full effect.
Georgia produced all manner of pretty confection (including a bag of cutesy baby pink cotton wool pads I coveted) then set about my face. No mean feat as I was so excited I couldn't keep my mouth shut! No change there then.
Erm...excuse me? Where are my minions?
Various Reddskin creations and different 'looks' were experimented with. I even managed to rope/con my youngest diva into taking behind-the-scenes photos with my own groovy new camera. It all went rather smoothly and photographer Kim was graciously patient with me as I posed and tried not to giggle.
Decisions, decisions.
I should probably explain...
Nubian Nights Out are a " group of young professionals working in various creative industries including, fashion, photography, music, film and PR". In December 2014 they founded their collective "looking to connect with like-minded people interested in learning more about Black history and identity". They are a dynamic bunch of people who have already put on several events through their meet up group
Freestyle locs styling.
Kim and Georgia have been spending most, if not all, of their spare time (they both work in demanding jobs) running around London photographing many women from a range of backgrounds. Images highlighting the diversity of Women of Colour not seen enough in mainstream media. It's SUCH an exciting project so I felt honoured when founder member, Relle, who I had the pleasure of working with at Forest Hill Fashion Week, approached me to participate.
Then I thought "Free Make-over? Where do I sign?"
Ready for my close-up.
This photoshoot is part of a series that will form the basis for their launch exhibition celebrating Women of Colour. The exhibition will launch on 23.07.15 and run for two days for public viewing at a boutique gallery in South London.
Cheshire cat has nothing on me!
NNO are currently also fundraising to produce a book of the event. You can read more about these exciting plans and donate here. Every little helps I promise you!
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Photo credits: Maheni Short.