dirty nails was n:u (melissandre varin)’s first major exhibition, comprising new commissioned sculptures, installations, and performance arts. This show - within which n:u (melissandre varin) also invited/curated/ commissioned the work of Ayesha Jones; Ban Workshop; Bousebik and Eole; Bronwyn Katz; Carmen Wong; Ibrahima Ndome; Jade Blackstock; Maria Muehombo/ M I M I; Sym Mendez/Sym Stellium; Wutangu- was part of a bigger project of their design between Dakar(SE) and Birmingham (GB) in 2024. This experimental approach to art making and experiencing including a collective residency at Ban Workshop during the OFFisON of Dak’Art bienniale 2024 with open meals and sharing of work in progress; and an exhibition in Birmingham with an extensive public programme centered communion, healing, and freedom. It was an invitation to play, grieve, hum; throw soil on white walls; dance, pray, touch, and be moved by the unknown. more about the overall project here: https://dirtynails.eastsideprojects.org/