The Art of Connections, presented by A Seat at the Table

As part of A Seat at the Table, a season of work celebrating Black creatives within our networks, The Art of Connections brings together two Black artists whose works explore the dynamic relationships between humans and their connections—with self, others, movement, the built environment, and nature. Through fine art and photography, this exhibition invites viewers on a visual journey that captures crucial moments and the profound bonds we form along the way.

Elicia’s explosive ink paintings of black cyclists on their journey evoke a sense of freedom, movement, and exploration. Each piece reflects the cyclists’ individual strength and bold identity within the elite world of sport, capturing moments of challenge and triumph.

Shae’s photography contrasts and harmonises urban architecture with natural landscapes, exploring the intersections between modern life and the environment. Through moments of connection—whether between people or their surroundings—her work reveals the subtle beauty in everyday interactions and the spaces we inhabit.

Together, these works invite viewers to reflect on how we engage with movement, our environments, and one another as we navigate life. The Art of Connections celebrates both the journeys we take and the relationships we form, offering a powerful exploration of how art deepens our understanding of the connections that define us.

About the Artists

Elicia Mckenzie is an East London based highly skilled expressionist artist specialising in oil paint, Indian ink and charcoal. She creates original and commissioned artwork that can be representational or abstract, focusing on capturing beauty, honouring icons, and highlighting the underrepresented in elite industries. Her work encompasses a powerful exploration of emotions, capturing the intensity of human experiences.

Her process starts with a simple reference photo and develops into an art form of admiration. Her dedication to her art is evident in every stroke, as she blends traditional techniques with her innovative style. Elicia continues to push boundaries, using her gift of creativity to celebrate the power of authenticity and individuality.

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Shae Shepherd is a London Based Photographer whose visual works depict her endless fascination with the creative arts, cultures and everyday life. Using the medium of photography to express the fine art of visual storytelling, capturing unscripted natural moments, unseen unique detail and the timeless nature that is the art of life.

Shae’s style of photography is an approach that is both authentic and tailored. Embracing the power of visual storytelling and intrigue. Using both the nostalgia of film photography and digital format Photography. Fine art composed imagery taking inspiration from the unique and diverse connections and environments that we may encounter visually and beautifully documents with detail that is just as unique and diverse.

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