"My curatorial philosophy is rooted in my artistic practice and lifetime commitment to increasing the representation of Black artists within art historical narratives. Central to my understanding of the curator's role, art tells stories, communicates progress as well as struggle, and signals opportunities for future generations to create new narratives. In Eyeminded, Kellie Jones reminds us that the value of art and history is critical in transforming public and private spaces to create needed dialogues. In this way, art serves as a mechanism to form mutually beneficial relationships, a core tenant of my curatorial practice. My curatorial practice is also deeply rooted in Pan-African practices and kinship, focusing on building community through the arts and philosophies of the Black diaspora. Looking to complexify the oversimplification of Blackness within mainstream culture, I invest in opportunities to promote and explore the wide varieties of the Black experience. My approach involves designing innovative spaces for conversation and art-making, centering young Black students, creatives, and local businesses."
Stokes earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art with a concentration in curatorial studies from Spelman College, where she was a part of the inaugural cohort of the Curatorial Studies program. Stokes also received a Master of Arts in Pan-African Studies from Syracuse University, where her thesis focused on contemporary artist Amy Sherald.
Reclamation: NXTHVN at Sean Kelly New York Review - ArtReview
What to See in NYC Galleries This August - The New York Times
NXTHVN Opens Its Studios - New Haven Arts
NXTHVN Reveals New Exhibition: "Not for Sale" - Yale Daily News
Black History Month 2022 - The NewsHouse
"Not Again SU" Movement Continues to Make Waves - Spectrum Local News
Graduate Student Group Organizes Die-In to Support Black Lives Matter - Daily Orange
My overall passion for design and illustration is rooted in creating meaningful experiences for people across various mediums. My journey began at Syracuse University, where I combined creativity with a commitment to inclusion and impact. Over time, I’ve cultivated a deep passion for using design as a tool to connect diverse communities and drive meaningful change, especially by amplifying underrepresented voices. Whether through digital designs, captivating motion graphics, or illustrations, I continuously explore how design can serve as a bridge for cultural storytelling and empowerment.
I take pride in crafting work that is not only visually striking but also purposeful—work that opens doors for conversations and fosters genuine connections. The ultimate goal is to continue shaping fresh, inclusive experiences that resonate with people and leave a lasting, positive impact on the spaces we share. My designs are deeply rooted by my Afro-Indigenous heritage, which inspires and drives my creative visions.
Hull received her BFA in Illustration from Syracuse University with a concentration in Editorial Illustration. She also received her MS in Multimedia, Photography, and Design from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, The Delta Zeta Chapter
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, The Kappa Lambda Chapter
CNY Adaptive Sports
Chappaquiddick Wampanoag Tribe
Presume Experiential Productions
Black Girl Digital
ORS Haircare
Melody Shari - Seventh Ave Beauty
Yandy Smith - Mr. Santa movie premiere
What's Included:
What's Included:
What's Included:
What's Included:
What's Included: