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The Black Woman Aesthetic creates spaces for dialogue and discovery about the complex intersections of race, gender identity, class, sexual orientation and faith. We showcase what equity and justice look like for Black people in the US. through art, education, and dialogue. The Black Woman Aesthetic serves as a platform that affirms the experiences of Black people. 

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About us

The Black Woman Aesthetic was founded by Nikki Brooks and Dr. Amena Johnson 

Nikki Brooks is an artist, educator, and activist. Her work focuses on social justice and activism. She is a mixed media artist working with installation art, space, sound, collage, and assemblage. Nikki’s artwork works with studying body politics in terms of black bodies within white spaces. Ms. Brooks has dedicated her life to advocating for the Arts in schools and helping students see the power of their voice through visual creativity. Nikki studied painting at Lorenzo de Medici in Florence, Italy in 1997 and received her Bachelor’s of Fine Art in Painting and Printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1998. In 2019, Nikki graduated from the Maryland Institute College of Art and Design, where she received her Masters in Studio Art. Learn more about Nikki.

Dr. Amena Johnson has had a deep commitment to youth, social justice, advocacy and educational equity. She specializes in training, facilitation and curriculum development. Amena has an extensive range of experience as a non-profit, and and higher education student affairs professional. She has engaged communities in dialogue and learning around: urban bias, intersectionality, the intergenerational workplace, LGBTQ topics, and diversity and inclusion in educational and nonprofit organizations. Amena received a BFA in Drama Therapy from Longwood University. She also received an MS in Organizational Leadership and  Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership from Wilmington University. Learn more about Amena.