About AAWA

Empowering Black Women in the Arts

AAWA (African American Women Artists) Collective, an initiative of the Phyllicia Phillips Scott Foundation, is a platform dedicated to elevating the voices and visions of Black women artists, and creatives across all disciplines. Rooted in the celebration of cultural identity, expression, and innovation, AAWA exists to create visibility, opportunity, and equity for African American women artists.

Our Mission

At AAWA, our mission is clear:

To amplify the work of Black women in the arts through exhibitions, education, and community-driven initiatives. We strive to break systemic barriers that have historically excluded African American women visual and performing artists from mainstream recognition and to promote lasting representation in galleries, museums, and academic institutions.

Cultural Equity and Inclusion

The African American Women Artists Collective (AAWA) was launched in Los Angeles in 2025 by the Phyllicia Phillips Scott Foundation, inspired by the life and legacy of Phyllicia Phillips Scott and her commitment to empowering Black women through mentorship, representation, and the arts. AAWA was created from the understanding that Black women artists have historically faced limited visibility and access to opportunities within the broader arts ecosystem. We believe cultural equity begins with intentionally creating space for artists whose voices and perspectives have been underrepresented, while recognizing the value those perspectives bring to the cultural record and to the communities we serve.

Through our work, we have learned that creating equity requires more than simply featuring artists. It requires building sustained opportunities for artists to be seen, connected with audiences, and engaged with institutions and communities. AAWA has therefore evolved its approach to include artist spotlights, curated exhibitions, virtual programming, collaborative projects, and community-based events that create both digital and physical pathways to visibility. Moving forward, we are focused on expanding these opportunities, strengthening institutional partnerships, and developing programs that support the continued visibility, recognition, and advancement of African American women artists.

CEI Policy
AAWA is committed to creating an equitable, inclusive, and accessible arts community where African American women artists have meaningful opportunities for visibility, artistic expression, and professional advancement. This commitment is central to our mission of amplifying the voices and visions of Black women artists. We recognize that advancing cultural equity requires ongoing reflection and intentional action. AAWA engages in organizational reflection, including consultation with The Aspire Group, and works to strengthen inclusive practices through exhibitions, artist opportunities, community programs, and partnerships that expand representation and access. As we grow, we will continue to evaluate our practices and identify meaningful ways to reduce barriers and advance equity within the arts.

Our History

The African American Women Artists Collective launched in Los Angeles, California in 2025, inspired by the life and legacy of Phyllicia Phillips Scott—a distinguished attorney, entrepreneur, beauty brand founder, and advocate for the empowerment of Black women with the arts.

Phyllicia Phillips Scott achieved notable success in both the legal field and the beauty industry. A proud graduate of Clark Atlanta University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), she dedicated her life to uplifting Black women through mentorship, representation, and cultural celebration. Her deep love for the arts was expressed through poetry, spoken word, fine art, and music. Throughout her life, she remained a strong supporter of Black artists and Black-owned businesses.

Motivated by Phyllicia’s unwavering commitment to creativity and empowerment, PPSF established the African American Women Artists Collective (AAWA) to carry forward that vision. The organization exists to celebrate, support, and amplify the voices and work of Black women artists and creatives across all disciplines.

Who We Serve

We support and spotlight:

Black women painters , photographers, and sculptors working in all mediums — from oil, acrylic, and mixed media to digital and mural art
Black women poets and writers
Black women creatives in performing arts, such as music, dance, theater, and performance-based installations
Curators, scholars, and collectors who champion diverse perspectives in the art world

What We Do

Curated Exhibitions featuring groundbreaking work by Black women artists
Artist Spotlights to introduce the works of African American women artists to wider audiences
Collaborative Projects with institutions committed to equity in the arts
Annual plein air event that brings artists and community together to celebrate creativity, culture, and connection

Support AWAA

Whether you’re a Black woman creating bold visual statements, a collector of African American women’s art, or an ally working for inclusion in the art world — AAWA is your home. Together, we are shaping the future of the arts through equity, visibility, and creative power.