OnaiiArt: A Study in Resilience
Jedidah Chick's practice is defined by the intersection of heritage and the visceral nature of texture. Her work serves as a tactile exploration of resilience—capturing the strength of the feminine spirit, the endurance of the natural world, and the restorative rhythm of the sea.
By working with heavy impasto and palette knives, Jedidah creates a tactile relief on the canvas. These physical peaks and valleys are more than visual; they are an attempt to replicate the raw energy of the African bush and the grit of the shoreline. For Jedidah, this heavy application is a moment of emotional release, resulting in a grounded, sensory experience that invites the viewer to move beyond observation and into a restorative, physical presence."
Heritage, Texture, and the Feminine Spirit
Inspired by the legacy of African queens and female ancestors, Jedidah creates contemporary works that honor untold stories, cultural heritage, and feminine power. Growing up in post-colonial Zimbabwe deeply shaped her perspective, inspiring a lifelong commitment to representation through art.
Her richly layered works combine vibrant color, fabric, and symbolic detail to evoke profound reflection. Themes of empowerment and the sculptural beauty of Afro hair appear throughout her series as symbols of identity and enduring strength.
"The name 'Onaii' is derived from the Shona word 'Onai,' meaning 'to behold something wondrous.' It is a call to see the beauty in resilience."
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The Restorative Power of the Natural World
Alongside her figurative series, Jedidah explores the emotional clarity found along the coastline. Inspired by the wild landscapes of Devon, her Wine, Water & Wakening series utilizes textured circular forms to reflect stillness and mindfulness. These works capture the quiet power of nature, offering a maritime counterpart to her heritage-driven pieces.
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Notable Recognition & Provenance
In 2025, selected works from Jedidah’s African Queen series won the VAA Art100 International, celebrating contemporary artists whose work demonstrates creative excellence and distinct artistic voice.
Jedidah's work has been exhibited globally, including the Visual Artists Association's Open Spaces trail. In 2026, she was featured in Devon Life as one of the "Leading Ladies of Devon," recognizing her influence within the contemporary art landscape. Her works are currently held in private collections across the United Kingdom, North America, and Asia.
Media & Discourse
Selected interviews and features exploring heritage, identity, and the contemporary African narrative.
Dialogue on Identity
Jedidah Chick discussing heritage, identity, and contemporary African art during an interview at Vinson & Elkins.
Legacy: Shaping the Future Narrative
Alongside her studio practice, Jedidah works with young people and communities to explore identity, belonging, resilience, and self-expression through art.
In collaboration with the University of Exeter's B-HUGS initiative, she has delivered workshops with students at St James School and West Exe School in Exeter, encouraging participants to reflect on their own stories, heritage, and sense of identity through creative expression.
One of these workshops was later featured by the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust, recognising the students' creativity and the role of art in building confidence, connection, and self-belief.
To read about Jedidah's workshop for Black History Month with B-Hugs charity at local school click here and to read more about the St James workshop click here.This work reflects Jedidah's belief that art is a language of resilience — a light for those seeking their own power.