8 BLACK COLORISTS TO HIRE IN 2024
Color grading is not just about enhancing hues; it's about evoking emotions, setting moods, and guiding the audience through the filmmaker's vision. From subtle tonal adjustments to bold contrasts, every shade is meticulously curated to enhance the story's impact. Hiring Black colorists can prove challenging due to underrepresentation in the industry. However, Black Film Space is on a mission to change that narrative by actively spotlighting these talented individuals. Check out this list of Black colorists to hire for your next project.
Curated by Antoinette Wade & Reggie Williams.
Image colored by Patrice Bowman for Nike Sports Lab.
PATRICE BOWMAN
New York, New York
Patrice D. Bowman is an award-winning director, professional colorist, and owner of the growing production and post-production company Bowman Pictures. She graduated with a B.A. in Film Studies from Yale University in 2015 and currently lives in New York City. As a colorist, she regularly collaborates with independent storytellers and major creative agencies that work with well-known brands –– such as Target and Nike. Dedicated to making the art of color more accessible, she conducts color grading workshops at various universities and film festivals.
MESERET
HADDIS
Jersey City, New Jersey
Mez was born and raised in North Dakota to Eritrean parents and has always had a love for telling stories. As a graduate of Tisch School of the Arts at NYU he continues to build on over 10 years of filmmaking experience. From writing to producing, film photography to video animations, Mez continues to expand his skillset to becoming a more diverse storyteller.
Mesgen Gebremeskel
Los Angeles, California
After 10+ years in post production, Temesgen continues to collaborate, learn and adapt to the ever-changing world of filmmaking as a colorist. He currently obtains the position of Final Colorist at Point360, based in Burbank, California. In this role, he has brought a set of unique skills to his clients by not only understanding color science or look development but also be able to do visual effects work at the same time. Temesgen has crafted stunning images for some of the world’s largest networks and renowned brands including: AppleTV+, Netflix, Hulu, MAX, Paramount+, Spotify and Google just to name a few. Due to his deep passion for technology, he dedicates himself to keeping up to date on the latest advancements in color and VFX. This commitment, in turn, provides a significant advantage for his clients, allowing them to concentrate fully on the creative aspects of their project.
Natacha Ikoli
Brooklyn, New York
Natasha is multidisciplinary artist who primarily works as a DI colorist. With nearly 10 years experience in post-production that shapes Natacha's vision and principles of what color grading ought to bring to the finishing of any movie whether it be a short, music video, feature or commercial.
Jabez Nelson
Central Islip, New York
Jabez Nelson is a color and finishing specialist. He has worked in the broadcast industry. His expertise lies in creating stunning images that capture the viewer's attention.
He is known for his technical expertise in delivering products that meet customer needs. He has a passion for developing new products and enjoys working with teams to bring innovative ideas to life. He takes pride in his work and is always looking for ways to improve his skills and knowledge.
Tiffany crafts stories with meaning and intention that resonate across high-profile brands, music videos, and film. Truly thoughtful about all aspects of the industry, Tiffany aims to create art that not only captivates but also educates and inspires. Tiffany's collaborations extend to top brands such as Chevy, Coca-Cola, Modelo, Marvel, and DoorDash, working closely with esteemed agencies, including Townhouse, Saatchi NY, Havas, Dentsu, and R/GA.
In addition to her commercial work, Tiffany has a strong passion for film, with documentaries and films showcased at festivals worldwide.Committed to inspiring emerging talent as well as promoting inclusivity and diversity, Tiffany serves as a mentor and is passionate about guiding emerging editors to exceed expectations and elevate their art.
Kya Lou
Los Angeles, California
WEBSITE
Kya Lou (b. San Diego) is an artist and filmmaker based in Los Angeles. Her practice weaves together film, sculpture, and photography, with work rooted in color spectrums, spiritual metadata, and archival explorations.
From 2017 to 2021, she ran a color grading studio called Coloured Only and has since worked as a colorist on various commercials, films, and art installations. With a background in post-production, she builds foundations that thoughtfully consider the remnants of every frame.
Lou’s recent work includes an 18-channel video installation focused on choreographer Alvin Ailey, created in collaboration with her friend Josh Begley. This installation is currently on view at the Whitney Museum of American Art as part of Edges of Ailey, curated by Adrienne Edwards.
She is also developing a book on color theory, stand-up comedy routines, and a film that explores the complexities embedded in her family’s migration from the American South to Southern California in the 1950s.