Alberta Whittle's Collage Series 'Business as Usual' as Spells of Hope

Born in 1980 in Barbados and currently residing in Glasgow, Scotland, Alberta Whittle creates collages that tackle themes such as the transatlantic slave trade, racism, white supremacy, and the climate crisis. Her 2016 series 'Business as Usual' employs digital collage techniques to delve into issues of migration, identity, and Black rights, incorporating self-portraits, texts, and imagery. Notable elements in her work include eyes, seashells, and tropical fruits, often featuring clever phrases like 'C is for colonial fantasy.' Whittle engages in a ritualistic practice involving incense and candles to honor her ancestors. She earned a BFA from Edinburgh College of Art, an MA from Glasgow School of Art, and a PhD from the University of Edinburgh. Her accolades include the Paul Hamlyn Foundation Award (2022) and the Frieze Artist Award (2020). In early 2026, she served as an artist-in-residence at Pivô Salvador, Brazil.