Gio Swaby: The Multitudes Within Black Womanhood
There’s no doubt that black representation in art institutions has been limited. However, as the art world progresses, more diverse artists are gaining recognition in these spaces. The well-known art fair, Art Toronto, is a platform that welcomes contemporary art galleries across Canada to showcase their artists’ recent work. Art Toronto was held from October 24th to 27th 2024 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, where the event featured artists like Gio Swaby, a Bahamian textile artist who is known for her focus on Black womanhood and individuality. She’s represented by Claire Oliver Gallery located in New York City. Their booth displayed Swaby’s self-portrait and textile silhouettes of Black women. Her body of work is a breath of fresh air and she creates a powerful space where Black individuals, especially Black women, can feel seen and heard.
Gio Swaby at Art Toronto 2024
Her creative process begins with an idea she wants to explore rather than beginning with the material. Once the concept is clear, she selects the materials that support her vision. Her practice is rooted in love, the skill of sewing was passed down to her from her family and she makes the effort to implement that in every piece she creates. She chooses textiles for their familiarity, which helps bridge the gap with the public, making her work approachable and relatable—especially for those who may feel intimidated in traditional art institutions.
She works closely with sitters, which are often family and friends, using photography to capture their poses. This collaborative process develops an authentic representation of each person. Conversations are central to her approach, as she engages with each sitter, seeking their permission, ensuring their comfort, and creating a safe and supportive space throughout the process.
My first impression of her work is that the attention to detail and bold use of color bring out a sense of grace and delicate care for the portrayal of female identity. Black women are often seen as having a tough exterior, yet Swaby’s body of work reveals a softer side through its fine, intricate stitching, capturing the essence of Black hair in silhouette with floral and delicate patterns that convey a bold feminine energy. The visual softness exudes a tone of positivity and confidence. The raw canvas adds a balanced contrast to the vivid, dynamic textiles, emphasizing the organic quality of the work.
Gio Swaby, Self Portrait, thread and fabric sewn on canvas
In her self-portrait, the canvas reveals the embroidery’s backing, with exposed threads representing her evolving identity. By looking at the canvas this way, it conveys that the Self is always a work in progress. The piece embodies acceptance and self-love, embracing her imperfections as a Black woman and creating a sense of connection with viewers through honesty. The composition encourages viewers to observe and appreciate her entire presence, by taking a closer look at each detail. This dynamic self-portrait interacts with its surroundings, subtly shifting with the wind or the movement of people nearby. The interaction demonstrates how the people and things around us can shape who we are.
The silhouettes, titled “New Growth 2nd Chapter #12” and “New Growth 2nd Chapter #13”, convey warmth, love, and appreciation. Her work can be seen as ‘incomplete portraits’ because there are no facial features, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty and allure of Black women. This approach celebrates the creativity of Black hair and captures self-expression and transformation. The colour and floral pattern of the textile is another thing that adds personality to the silhouette.
New Growth Second Chapter #12 (left) and #13 (right), each thread and fabric sewn on canvas
Gio Swaby was also featured in the FOCUS exhibition alongside 28 contemporary artists. Her piece, “Together We Bloom 5”, presents a grid of nine silhouette portraits that use bold, vibrant textiles to highlight the diversity and uniqueness of Black womanhood. These portraits reflect the multifaceted nature of Black identity, celebrating a broad spectrum of styles, personalities, and cultural backgrounds. Swaby is drawn to florals and nature because it reminds her of Caribbean culture and her upbringing. She describes Black hair as a form of art that is always evolving. Hairstyles hold layers of identity that defines different points in time, capturing the nuance and depth of Black culture.
Together We Bloom 5, thread and fabric sewn on canvas
With the intentionality of portraying the perspective of Black womanhood, Swaby doesn’t define Black womanhood as one thing. She continues to expand her understanding it by including queer and trans identities. She finds beauty in exploring the similarities of Black women across different geographies, cultures and styles. Swaby wants people to experience her art without hierarchy, inviting everyone to connect with it. Although, her primary audience are Black individuals, who are often excluded from traditional art spaces. She hopes they feel seen and recognized, and hopes her work has a meaningful impact on anyone who experiences it.
Gio Swaby explores individuality and diversity among Black women, offering true narratives that counter stereotypes rooted in historical depictions. By establishing her own path, she creates a space where Black women feel seen, understood, and safe, honoring their identities without limiting them to a single perspective.
Text and photo: Abuk Lual