Discover the city’s diverse arts community, as LIFEWTR shines a light on local artists putting their stamp on music, film, fashion and the visual arts.
Artist, Musician, Philanthropist
Since she began playing the trumpet at 13, Arnetta has always proudly represented her family and the Delaware Valley. She loves to work with the youth in her hometown, and always visits to give back whenever she can.
“I’m from Camden, New Jersey, right across the bridge from Philadelphia. I’m a product of the jazz sound of the city. I sharpened my skills at various venues and jam sessions in Philadelphia, allowing me to meet and networks with other musicians.”
Like water, I believe equality is an essential component to life. I strive to be authentically hUman. Which means allowing myself to explore life, creation, and art in a way that is not hindered by labels, musical genres, social norms, or any other marginalizing stereotype. This year, I was a recipient of the Black Music City grant, which allowed me to create a 3-part, multimedia project, honoring women of color; entitled "Soul Sista (REiMAGINED)", a collaboration with between Philadelphia public music radio stations WXPN-FM and WRTI-FM and REC Philly, (find out more on my website). I hope that anyone that comes in contact with me,through my art or life in general, feels inspired to be themselves and encourage others around them to do and express the same.
"I believe this campaign will be the catalyst for a number of other creatives to feel inspired and encouraged by understanding that their art, uniqueness, and lives are worth sharing and don’t have to remain unseen. Personally, I am excited to be a representation of someone that embraces evolution in every way. My orientation, my sound, my style, my LIFE, my art are all equally important to me, and through the art I’ll present, you’ll quickly see that “I dance to the beat of my own drum.”
In 2020, Philadelphia Magazine recognized Shanina Dionna as the “Philly artist creating positive spaces for mental health conversations” through the visual and performing arts. Her creative practice is informed by personal experiences through medical diagnoses, childhood trauma, hospitalization, therapy treatments, self-care practices and an exploration of holistic measures for cognitive, behavioral and psychological healing. Her arts advocacy has helped bridge the gap between local wellness institutions and marginalized communities through representation, growing partnerships, and creative expression in the Greater Philadelphia area.
“When I hear “Life Unseen” I think of the brave and courageous people who show up in our communities everyday – to educate, inspire, empower and uplift. The ones who challenge societal status quos, help reduce stigmas and positively encourage alternative perspectives.”
“My subject matter is based on an ongoing story with real characters that I created. I decontextualize, reconstruct and regurgitate everything I see and feel on the canvas based on concepts, motifs and issues that mirror society. I make sure to explore the technological, political, social and racial climate in America while painting a post-apocalyptic and futuristic landscape.”
“When I see the words “LIfe Unseen” I think about the millions of people in this world that never get to show their art to the world because of economic factors. Where you live or what you don’t have access to shouldn’t limit your art. I hope that through giving the world a snapshot of my process this could inspire all to never live life unseen.”
