PLACE:

New Orleans, LA

BIO:

Nicole Collins is an award-winning filmmaker, actor, and host from Louisiana. Although she was born and raised in Alexandria, her 12 years in New Orleans is where she developed a passion for music and filmmaking. She hosted a number 1 weekend slot on New Orleans’ Number 1 station, Q93, for 8 years. Her acting credits include HBO’s ‘Treme’ and ‘Twelve Years a Slave’. Nicole’s hosting talents have landed her gigs with the NBA, Essence Festival, and We-TV. Nicole has written, directed, and/or produced over 20 film projects. Nicole’s goal is to continue to create content that promotes the liberation of black women. Nicole has received several grants for both her film and philanthropy work. Nicole’s directed works have screened at ABFF, Just for Laughs Festival, The New Orleans Film Festival, and more. Nicole is the mother of 11-year-old actress Aadyn Encalarde. She continues her work in the film industry as the marketing and engagement coordinator for the nonprofit Women Make Movies and as a board member for Dreamseeker Foundation, and the New Orleans Video Access Center (NOVAC) where she serves as board president.

PROJECT:

WILD is an immersive, multidisciplinary exhibit designed to celebrate the liberation journey of Black women by focusing on healing and evolution. A healing oasis is created through various artistic mediums such as film interviews, experimental film, live monologue performances, visual art, music, artifacts, and sensory tools like incense, light, and music. The exhibit explores questions such as what is the root of our individual trauma, how can Black women heal from trauma and reclaim their power, how can art be used as a tool for healing, and what does it mean to be a Black woman in today’s society?