Xanthe won the Anna Award!

Xanthe Somers was born and went to school in Harare, Zimbabwe. She graduated from Michealis School of Fine Art, UCT in Cape Town in 2015- she went on to be awarded a grant to study a MA Postcolonial Culture and Global Policy at Goldsmiths, University of London which she completed in 2020 with distinction. Xanthe Somers's practice is informed by the politics of aesthetics, and more significantly how the colonial history in Zimbabwe continues to manipulate aesthetic values. Her work as a ceramic sculptor looks at reimagining everyday life and examining the subtle treason of objects. Through a sense of play, bright colours, mocking tone and exaggerated shapes, the artist tries to challenge the prevailing ideas associated with normalcy, beauty and refinement which have been manipulated by the Christian-Colonial gaze fixed strongly on southern Africa. Xanthe recently completed the GUILD artist residency, for two months with Southern Guild in Cape Town, South Africa, March-May 2024.

"I am deeply honored to be selected as this year's ANNA Award winner, especially among such a remarkable group of finalists. I want to extend my deepest gratitude for this recognition and the opportunities it brings. This award will undoubtedly enhance my artistic career, offering new avenues for creative exploration and growth. It is vital to spotlight and elevate the voices of female African artists on the global stage, as our unique perspectives and stories contribute richly to the world's cultural tapestry." - Xanthe Somers

Audience award goes to Yaknoabasi Jessicah Ene.

In my artistic journey, I delve into the profound realms of sisterhood, women's empowerment, and the divine feminine. Shaped by the nurturing bonds within my predominantly female family, my work aims to illuminate the varied roles of women and address the challenges they navigate. Each creation is a testament to my idealistic vision of societal development, capturing the essence of unity and strength inherent in sisterhood. Empowerment, a recurring theme, resonates through my art, advocating for the elevation of women in all facets of life. The divine feminine, a source of inspiration, lends a spiritual and transcendent dimension to my work, celebrating the inherent grace and power within every woman. Through diverse mediums, my art mirrors the dynamic interplay of surroundings, personal experiences, and an ever-evolving imagination. As I navigate this continuous learning journey as an emerging artist, my central goal remains to educate, heal, and inspire, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable world by spotlighting the beauty and resilience of women.

“Being an ANNA Award finalist means a lot to me; it shows that my hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Reapplying this year and being recognized gives me hope that with dedication, passion, and consistency, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.”