Calling all UK-based creatives of Sierra Leonean heritage! Krio Collective, an Arts Council England-funded project, is seeking four visual artists, poets, or musicians to explore identity, migration, and culture. Participants receive £2,000 and take part in discussions, studio visits, and a group exhibition.

About the Project

I am looking for four UK-based creatives of Sierra Leonean heritage to be a part of Krio Collective, an Arts Council England funded project exploring identity, migration, colonialism’s legacy, and African influence in shaping British culture.

This project aims to bring together visual artists, poets, and musicians to exchange ideas and exhibit work in a culminating group exhibition at The London Lighthouse Gallery.

While not essential, fluency in Krio is preferred. By celebrating the Krio language, a vital part of Sierra Leonean culture, I hope we can contribute to its preservation whilst creating deeper cultural dialogue. 

Over the course of the project, selected participants will engage in:

• Monthly group discussions and studio visits (21 April, 9 June, 7 July, 4 August, 1 September) to exchange knowledge and ideas, with the group visiting each other's art studio at least once.
• Group exhibition and performances in late September/early October 2025, featuring artwork, poetry readings, and performances by the selected participants.

Krio Collective aims to foster long-term creative relationships within the Sierra Leonean community in the UK, providing a space for collaboration, dialogue, and artistic development. 

Each selected creative will receive a £2,000 fee.

About me - Habib Hajallie

Though I am the first generation of my family born in the UK, Krio is my first language. I am of Sierra Leonean and Lebanese heritage and I have exhibited my artwork, mainly ballpoint pen portraits, across the UK and internationally for a decade, using my practice to empower marginalised groups. Through Krio Collective, I want to build a long lasting creative network within the British Sierra Leonean community, fostering collaboration and cultural celebration.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are welcome from:

• Visual artists, poets, and musicians of Sierra Leonean heritage.
• Creatives based in the UK.
• Artists interested in themes of identity, migration, and the intersection of African and British cultures.
• Those eager to collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to a meaningful creative dialogue.
• Applicants who speak the Krio language are strongly encouraged to apply.
• All applicants must be available on 21 April, 9 June, 7 July, 4 August, 1 September as well as on specific dates (TBC) for install and takedown of the exhibition in late September/October. 

Full participation is essential. Selected artists must attend all scheduled studio visits and exhibition-related activities. Failure to do so without prior agreement may result in removal from the project.