A brilliant event was held to celebrate the opening of the She Has Rizzen exhibition at the Museum of Gloucester.

The Museum was transformed with colourful fabrics, music, and the smell of great food as people gathered to celebrate the opening of its latest Community Gallery exhibition: She Has Rizzen: A retrospective Afrocentric exhibition by poet and artist Rizpah Amadasun.

An artist in paint and spoken word based in Gloucester, Rizpah Amadasun is embarking on an extraordinary journey to complete a Masters in Painting at the Royal College of Art. A world leading institute for art and design, this will take her creative practice to the next level.

Rizpah's artwork explores identity in positive Black narratives which celebrate solidarity, joy and our interconnected roots.

As an Anglo-African conceptual artist, Rizpah is influenced by West African symbolism and the way it tells a story about belief, history and empowerment.

At present her work is defined by rich warm portraits full of vibrant colours. Unlimited by ideas of traditional canvas; Rizpah's work includes body painting, set designs and a

collection of Afrocentric bomber jackets featuring hand-painted artwork in her clothing line, Rizzen.

Rizpah Amadasun said: "To get into the Royal College of Art as a Black woman from a low income family, I hope inspires future generations to pursue their purpose."

"The Community Gallery is a great space to engage with the communities of Gloucester, watching children have their pictures taken in front of my work constantly reminds me why it's important to push for more positive representation in art to encourage everyone to come."

She Has Rizzen: An Afrocentric exhibition runs at the Museum of Gloucester until December 31.

For more information, see https://www.museumofgloucester.co.uk/communitygallery  or visit https://rizpah.co.uk/