aurélia durand is decolonizing the french art scene

By Erin White

April 15, 2019

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Swoon-city over the incredible neon-colored artwork of Paris-based graphic artist, Aurélia Durand. The Uber-talented artist pays homage to Black women who are so underrepresented in European media, showcasing a glamorous interpretation of #BlackGirlMagic that aims to include a diverse spectrum of beauty. Fair skin isn’t the only type of beauty. Having studied art and design in France and Denmark, Durand was exposed to the reality of underrepresentation for Black woman artists in the books she studied from. In response to this, her work and even her presence in graphic design and the arts is a statement of worthiness and a showcase of talent within the Black community that some Europeans have never seen.

“Today a new page is turning, we, as people of color are writing our own story through different media as photography, illustration, literature, cinema, etc.,” Durand tells AFROPUNK. “It’s exciting to see what will happen in a few years. My art aims to celebrate colors, diversity and being a woman. I see colors as a way to make a difference and bring joy. My colors are also accompanied by music to spread good vibes, on Instagram I publish joyful animations of afrobeat dances to interact with my audience. Through my art, I want to talk about respect for diversity by creating joyful moments.”