Julianna Chioma is a Nigerian-American emerging artist working out of Asheville, NC. Through the interdisciplinary gestures of painting,ceramics, textiles, and installation her work explores myth and narrative surrounding themes of sex, power, identity, cultural and social perceptions, trauma, suffering, and modes of healing. By casting mythological characters adapted from their favorite cartoons in the role of avatars of the psyche and forebearers of truth, the work unfolds to reveal an epic journey of loss, discovery, and growth. Inspired by the trick mirror play of psychological horror, surrealism, and Nigerian folklore she builds up stratified renderings encased in stitches, paint, and mud in an effort to communicate the complex tapestry of black womanhood.

We’re thrilled to announce that these artists have been rescheduled to April of 2025, after being unable to come into the residency in October 2024 due to Hurricane Helene.

Born and raised in the picturesque land of Asheville, North Carolina, D aka Dan aka Daniel (only when people are mad at him) is an artist whose creativity flows as freely as their love for Crocs. Known for their distinctive style, they merge the comfort of these iconic clogs with their vibrant artwork, often found sporting a pair in every imaginable color while creating masterpieces. Whether they’re recreating famous paintings or replacing famous people’s faces with their favorite shoe, you can bet their Crocs are always the muse for their next big idea. In the world of art, D proves that the right footwear can truly inspire greatness—or at least a lot of chuckles.

Artist’s Statement: “My work explores the layered complexity of time, memory and perception, where  seemingly chaotic fragments coalesce into a larger, more harmonious whole, reflecting the process of accumulation – layers of information, emotions and experiences building upon one another. Relationships between subjects are often unclear or shifting, allowing the viewer to experience multiple interpretations and draw their own connections while offering a space for personal meaning to emerge.”