Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley

Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley works predominantly in animation, sound, performance and Video Games, communicating the experiences of being a Black Trans person. Their practice focuses on exploring the lives of Black Trans people, intertwining lived experience with fiction to imaginatively retell Trans stories. Spurred on by a desire to record the “History of Trans people both living and past” their work can often be seen as a Trans archive where Black Trans people are stored for the future. Throughout history, Black queer and Trans people have been erased from the archives. Because of this it is necessary not only to archive our existence, but also the many creative narratives we have used and continue to use to share our experiences.

Danielle’s work has been shown in Science Gallery, MU, Barbican,Tate ,Les Urbains as well as being part of the BBZ Alternative Graduate Show at the Copeland Gallery. An online component of their work can often be found at: www.daniellebrathwaiteshirley.com

BLACK TRANS MEMORIAL 

We are here because of those before us that were brave enough to live their truth. To stand tall in a world that didn’t want them. 

We need to remember those around us who have supported us. Kept us standing upright when we could have easily fallen. Those who played the stepping stones to keep us from being forgotten.

This is for those Black Trans People who have given as much support as they have requested. 

Who told us that we can live our life how we choose. 

Who kept us afloat.

So that we wouldn’t be buried.

Under the weight of history. 

Again

“I have created a 3D rendered memorial to the resilience of Black Trans people. To remember those who have lived in a pandemic of being dehumanised and who have been the vaccine for each other. Who have upheld each other when no one else would.” Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley