Yeefah Thurman, Multifaceted Artist

Yeefah Thurman is a dynamic multi-media assemblage artist and educator whose life and work are deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the African diaspora. 

Growing up in a home brimming with art, her parents nurtured her artistic talents, leading her to the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. After high school, Yeefah ventured into the fashion world as a model and creative consultant. 

In her forties, an irresistible urge to rekindle her art practice led her to photography, and in 2010, she was mentored by the acclaimed photographer Jules Allen. Her commitment to public art is evident in her installation pieces, and in 2021, she was honored with an artist residency in Mexico to research Afro-Mexican culture. 

Yeefah's dedication to education and community art is highlighted by her 2022 art grant from the city of Evanston, which she used to co-create a cross-cultural art curriculum and residency for middle schoolers. She continues to cultivate her artistic practice from her studio in Evanston.

Yeefah's work explores themes of culture, identity, equity, and social norms through a socio-humanist lens. She uses photography, video, and mixed media such as paper and wood to tell stories that challenge the dominant cultural narratives. Her focus on Africans in the diaspora and her own lived experiences are central to her storytelling. Yeefah's art aims to bridge gaps between disconnected communities, encouraging viewers to see, think, and feel differently about themselves and others. 

By immersing audiences in diverse cultural narratives, she strives to expand their perspectives and inspire them to consider making positive changes in the world, whether large or small. Her work is an invitation to reflect on our shared humanity and break down communication barriers, fostering a deeper understanding and connection across cultural divides.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Yeefah is also a dedicated hairstylist, racial healing practitioner, transformation life coach, and integrative somatic trauma therapy practitioner. As the owner of Dropn Pearls Hair Artistry, she has spent over 16 years specializing in all types of hair, with a particular focus on curly, wavy, thick, and fine textures. 

Her holistic approach to hairstyling incorporates the science of healthy hair and client education on optimal products and techniques. Yeefah's commitment to personal growth and human connection extends into her roles as a racial healing practitioner and life coach, where she facilitates meaningful conversations and helps individuals strengthen relationships and connect deeply with themselves and others. Her multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to social justice, personal transformation, and the celebration of cultural diversity.