FACE Excellence 2024
The FACE Excellence Prize gives Black and minoritised creatives the chance to self-nominate for this prize held during Graduate Fashion Week in June. Anyone from any institution can enter. This is our fourth year…time to meet Mahalia Ellis, from Birmingham City University
“It’s all about embracing the richness and complexity of Black culture. Key from me was making a clear rejection of the narrow definitions often imposed on Black creativity.”
Instagram: Personal @mahaliaellis_ Projects @solostoriessociety_
Website here
Previous winners of the FACE Excellence Prize have been clothing design graduates, Mahalia Ellis changes things. “I believe in the transformative power of my concept to bring realness to the industry. In a media landscape saturated with fictionalised narratives, this project stands out by offering genuine, real-life stories. By focusing on everyday experiences, it creates a space for individuals to see themselves reflected in the media, validating and affirming diverse lived experiences historically marginalised or underrepresented.”
“For me, Mahalia was the complete package – she presented work that was conceptually strong, creative and sophisticated in its realisation. She showed an impressive level of professionalisation whilst maintaining a unique and individual voice.”
Dr Christine Checinska | Senior Curator - Africa and Diaspora:
Textiles and Fashion V&A
“The concept of Solo Stories, ‘THIS IS US,’ is a cultural movement celebrating and amplifying Black voices and experiences,” say’s Mahalia. “My project was focussed on dismantling stereotypes to offer an authentic portrayal of the Black community’s diverse narratives. I wanted to provide a platform for Black individuals to reclaim and redefine their stories through art, literature, film, and music, showcasing their talents and perspectives unapologetically. I am honoured to receive the FACE Excellence Award. I loved working on the project. It brings me so much joy to be able to see people celebrated and lifted up and I hope to continue this project as a movement in the near future.”
I wanted to provide a platform for Black individuals to reclaim and redefine their stories through art, literature, film, and music, showcasing their talents and perspectives unapologetically
It’s all about real life stories. I wanted my work to embody authenticity and personal connection. Featuring a range of age groups captures the complexities and diversity within the human experience, to portray generational wisdom, resilience, and growth. Of course I am personally connected to the theme and this allowed me to approach storytelling with empathy and insight.
I photographed people, each at different life stages, in their homes. I aimed for an authentic look with a film-style aesthetic during editing. My goal was to capture genuine interactions and emotions, heartfelt images. The relaxed atmosphere of the shoots allowed for organic moments, making the experience memorable for all involved.
“I also created a fashion photoshoot, crafting the scenes and characters based on storyboards to ensure each concept aligned with the personality of the individual. This approach meant I could spotlight real people with real stories, stylising the visuals to resonate with each person and imbuing the campaign with depth and narrative richness.
The project also includes a book of archives and a short film to enhance the storytelling and immersive quality of my work. The book; a tangible repository of photos and experiences from participants, preserves and documents their stories. Each photograph captures a moment in time, with personal anecdotes enriching the narrative, inviting readers to connect deeply with the stories.”
“I am honoured to receive the FACE Excellence Award. I loved working on the project. It brings me so much joy to be able to see people celebrated and lifted up and I hope to continue this project as a movement in the near future.”
“The short films add another dimension, bringing participants’ stories to life through cinematic visuals and audio. It offers a dynamic portrayal of their experiences, incorporating scenes inspired by real-life events. Audio recordings of participants responding to thought-provoking questions add depth and intimacy, allowing viewers to hear first-hand accounts and reflections.”
Yes it was a lot of work. I approached this project section by section and I kept a note pad of production jobs and crossed things off the list as I progressed. Coming up with the logo was harder than I thought it would be. My Head of Dept Adam Guy was really supportive throughout. He gave me industry advice and as a white male he showed me he had insights into different cultures that helped me to feel confident about what I was doing.
My Mum was with me on the day it was announced and I collected my award. It was a lovely thing to share with her. Both my parents have been overjoyed and proud. They know how hard I worked and it really meant something to them to see that my work paid off.
Both my parents have been overjoyed and proud. They know how hard I worked and it really meant something to them to see that my work paid off.
Next steps? I see myself working in a smaller brand that values people and community. I hope to bring my views and perspectives to a brand in a real and authentic way. My favourite fashion brand is Bianca Saunders. I love how her pieces tells stories. It would be a dream to work with her. I hope to provide freelance work for both individuals and brands soon. My dream is to become a full-time art and creative director - continuing to serve and love others through it.
My dream is to become a full-time art and creative director
Mahalia Ellis, Birmingham City University
Report Caryn Franklin