In these works, JRSA explores the shifting boundaries of identity, beauty, and self-expression through the intimate act of hairstyling, incorporating actual box braid hair to deepen the tactile and symbolic qualities of the piece. Set against abstract landscapes, the series features elaborate African hairstyles, confronting the viewer with the complex interplay between pride, scrutiny, personal choice, and societal expectation. The layering technique central to the artist’s practice visually mirrors the layered complexities of being female, evoking the intricacies of the female anatomy. The organic forms of the braids and the multidimensionality of the piece allude to the interconnected nature of identity, gender, and cultural heritage.

JRSA’s use of box braids transcends aesthetic choice, marking a significant reference to Africanness and positioning African femininity as a complex site of cultural expression and social negotiation. The works illuminate how femininity and Africanness are continuously redefined and contested, both within personal and broader societal contexts. By highlighting the beauty and complexity of African femininity, JRSA raises critical questions: Who defines authenticity? Who polices femininity? And how does the intersection of Africanness and femininity become a site of both empowerment and judgment?

The ‘In the Name of Africanness’ collection delves into the artist's ongoing reflection on her African identity, shaped by her roots in Kenya and her current experience in Germany. Through these works, the artist interrogates the complexities of what it means to be "African enough," exploring the nuances of cultural belonging and the multifaceted nature of Africanness. With each piece, she questions: What defines her connection to Kenya? What elements shape her understanding of being African? The collection invites viewers to contemplate the intricate layers of identity and the fluid boundaries that frame what it means to truly belong.