Vocal Roots

Meet panelist Mary Adeosun 🖌️✨

Based in Tāmaki Makaurau, is a multidisciplinary creative of Yoruba and Igbo descent whose practice explores the intersections of Blackness, diaspora, q***r identity, and ancestral memory. Centering her work on braiding, hair sculpture, and storytelling, she crafts sculptural pieces, zines, and wearables that balance whimsy with poignant dialogues on anti-Blackness and belonging.

Her most recent projects include ADE | Crown and Braid & Bottlecaps, a collaboration with artist Tristan reimagining African artifacts through discarded materials. Mary recently brought textured hair artistry to the NZFW25 runway with Adrion Atelier and continues to engage the community through local markets, selling sapphic zines and handcrafted accessories.

Currently navigating a self-described creative “flop era” Mary works within q***r and Indigenous art organisations. This intentional season of slowing down allows her to support fellow creatives and draw inspiration from collective energy, fostering a more mindful approach to her evolving artistic journey.