Kimberly Ann Hawes | Artist of the Seen and Unseen
I’m Kimberly Ann Hawes, and I create art that feels like it already knew you.
Award-winning, internationally exhibited, and a little defiant by design.
Award-winning, internationally exhibited, and a little defiant by design.
I blend the timeless and the digital, offering works that move between worlds — canvas, screen, and spirit.
Whether it’s minimalist elegance, Afrocentric glamour, food-inspired wonder, or fashion-forward statements, my art isn’t made just to be looked at. It’s made to be felt.
If your walls could whisper, they’d ask for this.
If your walls could whisper, they’d ask for this.
Hawsé Sumi
Recipient & Award Winning Artist
Art For August Wilson
“Guardian Of The Hill”
This interview was recorded just days after a personal tragedy. At the time, I didn’t have anything with me—so the outfit and hat you see were picked up on the way. I showed up as I was, because this moment mattered.
The exhibition was held at the historic August Wilson House, and while I wasn’t in the space to attend the event myself, I later received photos of my artwork on display—and word that it resonated deeply. I heard stories of people asking to meet me, giving heartfelt compliments, and wanting to know more about the piece.
It was one of those moments where, despite everything, the art still spoke. That’s why I created Guardian of the Hill. And that’s what this video is—a piece of the journey. Watch if you’d like. The message is in the paint.
The Exhibit
About the Artist & Mwanga
(Mwanga Swahili for “light” or “radiance”)
Mwanga
(‘Swahili for “light” or “radiance”)
Symbolizes emerging from shadow into recognition—unintended yet undeniable.
Symbolizes emerging from shadow into recognition—unintended yet undeniable.
About the Piece:
Mwanga was the very first piece of mine to receive public recognition—and it all happened by divine accident. Without any formal submission, it was selected to hang in the Mayor’s Office of Pittsburgh for two months, then made its way through several city departments.
Mwanga was the very first piece of mine to receive public recognition—and it all happened by divine accident. Without any formal submission, it was selected to hang in the Mayor’s Office of Pittsburgh for two months, then made its way through several city departments.
But the real twist?
While it was on display, a producer from the hit series Mayor of Kingston happened to see it—and reached out to request that a contract be sent over for the rights to feature it as visual artwork in the show.
That email (which still makes me smile) is included below.
Let’s just say—I signed it without hesitation.
And no, I won’t tell you how much I was paid. But I will tell you this: Mwanga glowed differently after that.
And no, I won’t tell you how much I was paid. But I will tell you this: Mwanga glowed differently after that.
This piece launched everything. Her face became more than a portrait—it became proof.
Proof that when art is aligned, it doesn’t knock. It enters.
Artistic Journey
I didn’t follow a map—my bank account told me to listen and follow the spirit.
Resilience raised me. Creativity saved me.
My work blends raw storytelling, a formidable presence, and an unapologetic dose of ungodly creativity.
Resilience raised me. Creativity saved me.
My work blends raw storytelling, a formidable presence, and an unapologetic dose of ungodly creativity.
Recognition
From the walls of the Mayor’s Office of Pittsburgh to international galleries and TV screens, my art travels without asking for permission.
Inspiration
I paint from my moods. Life!
Each piece blends cultural travels, fashion, and digital or traditional, every brushstroke is a coded message.
Each piece blends cultural travels, fashion, and digital or traditional, every brushstroke is a coded message.
Enter My World
