#BGFAcademyAlumni - Alero Helena
Image credits: Photography by Rakiya Hassan, Edited by Hannah Faith
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your creative journey?
My name is Alero Helena and I'm known as the tall black babe that goes to Black Art exhibitions. I am a Black art enthusiast with an academic background in international development, violence, conflict and politics. I’ve currently finished a Curatorial course and plan on launching my own art shows next year.
Ultimately, I enjoy the visual storytelling of obscured and often ignored non-fictional narratives surrounding the lives of Africans and those in the diaspora. I started exploring art galleries post lockdown after a very bad mental health crisis as a means to finding myself. I promised myself last September that I’d do whatever brings in peace, so everything I do now is a reflection of this commitment I’ve made to myself.
As an alumni of the BGF Academy 2022, how did the program support your work?
Whilst on the programme I learned about different roles within the creative sector such as photographer, creative director and art director. This provided me with clarity on my position in the creative sector. Prior to the programme, I worked as an Art Director however; whilst on the programme I learned what I didn’t want to be. Ultimately, I realised that I want to be curator after the programme.
Has there been a time where you doubted yourself as a art/creative director and if so how did you navigate through it?
Yes, throughout the programme I had to work collaboratively with my group, as there was no lead position to be occupied. I wasn't able to explore my personal vision for the end results which made me feel as though I didn’t leave a mark on the work produced. From this experience, I learned not to define my creative worth solely by the work that I produce. Instead I identified my strengths such as artist relations and organising things aesthetically which I’m now running with.
Who are some of your inspirations within your field?
Tina Ziegler and Ekow Eshun
Image credits: Photography by Alero Helena
Talent: Sheniece Charway
What’s next for you on your journey?
I’m currently planning for my first exhibition curated by myself as well as another business idea.
One piece of advice for young Black girls wanting to pursue a career in creative/art direction?
Go for every opportunity that feels right for you even if you’re not sure it will be. That is exactly what I did with BGF and it gave me more than I expected by giving me career clarity.
