Tumi Adeleye is a first gen Nigerian-American. She was born and raised in an African household in the heart of New York, Brooklyn before moving to the heart of Nigeria, Lagos.
Through photography, Tumi explores the complexities of the cultures she grew up in from the perspective of a black woman living in America. Her work highlights the nostalgia of growing up in Brooklyn in the late 1990s and early 2000s and is equally inspired by her rich African cultural background. Piecing together the puzzle of life, she sheds light on topics such as black beauty, mental health, love, emotions and more. Her goal is to connect people to stories and imagery that are often under-appreciated, unrecognized, and forgotten. Tumi’s style of photography is versatile but will always display themes of softness and love which we’re all deserving of.
The Gallery
The Work
4cCherry
Her alter ego, 4Ccherry. Tormented by the world’s perception of her beauty while learning to define her own standards. Her crown constantly tugged at by entitled strangers Constantly questioned by her own skinfolk. She wraps her head with her coils both flaunting and hiding her truth, her gifted insecurity.
Archival Pigment Print
16×20
$600
Sistahood
As I get older, I long for the moments where I safely express my childlike nature, where everything isn’t too serious. My sisters are often the ones that I safely relive & release the joy of unfiltered laughter and whimsicalness with.
Archival Pigment Print
16×20
$600
Crowned
This image and series embodies the regal energy black women innately carry. It’s goddess energy, Yemaya energy.
Archival Pigment Print
16×20
$600