Anderson says: “I was struck by the fact that her pursuit of art was coupled with a passion for science. Her stunning figurative works stood out not only because of her technical skill, but the layered references to anatomical biology and religious iconography, and how this enhanced the tenderness with which she represented the Black female body.”

Driven by her desire to educate, inspire and liberate her audience, Shannon’s paintings embody an afrofemcentrist consciousness, sharing muted narratives and projecting Black women’s lived experiences. Combining her creative and scientific sides, she merges African textile culture with biological structures and chemical processes to add another layer of storytelling to her work.

Shannon Bono says: “I am inspired by the feeling I got when looking at the works of Mickalene Thomas, Carrie Mae Weems and Wangechi Mutu, a feeling of empowerment and being seen. I wish to make others feel the same thing when experiencing my work. My practice has a lot of African influences from textile culture to spirituality, I merge these traditions to express Black womanhood from my own lens.”

Anderson adds: “In her I found a refreshing voice, that despite the challenges of her educational experiences (her ideas not being fully supported), was committed to conscientiously and authentically forging her path into the art world. The clarity of her vision and silent, stealth like determination, told me that success was hers in the making. It’s been a pleasure to confidently champion her work ever since with collectors, through my work with @blackbritishart and my cultural leadership work as director of Black Cultural Archives.”

Shannon’s next solo show will take place next year. Until then, you can view her portrait of Linda Haye, which was one of 10 commissioned by His Majesty The King to honour the accomplishments of the Windrush Generation. It will be on display at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh until mid-September, before transferring to the National Portrait Gallery London in October for around six months.