KGI Projects works with and is extensively networked with arts leaders, institutions, and ecosystems across the art world and African diaspora, including the United States, Africa, and Europe.

Recent Clients and Partners

Our clients and partners include artist-centered organizations, social justice organizations, philanthropic institutions, and educational anchors, including Ford Foundation, Museum Hue, American Friends Service Committee, Columbia University, and Recess Art.

See more below.

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Speaking Panel

Speaking Engagements

KGI Projects is often featured at convenings, summits, and professional gatherings as a speaker, panelist, or moderator: Art Toronto, Brooklyn Arts Council, Center for Curatorial Leadership, Simons Foundation, Angels and Muse, WO’AMA Nigeria, and Voices of Contemporary Art.

Featured Projects

  • KGI Projects worked with Museum Hue to design a curriculum, curate speakers, and facilitate a six-month virtual series of monthly all-day workshops on executive leadership and institution building for 10 arts leaders of color from across New York state.

  • KGI Projects worked with the African American and African Diaspora Studies Department of Columbia University to design and conduct extensive oral history interviews with key African curators. KGI is co-editing the interviews for publication and moderating a major public program featuring the interviewees.

  • KGI Projects acted as key advisor and connector on a research project and convening of multidisciplinary African artists and thinkers in Nairobi, Kenya around the topic of art, trauma, and healing. KGI is co-editing the public report of new scholarship and ideas coming out of the convening.

  • KGI Projects has worked with several entities to design, facilitate, and project manage learning exchange programs bringing together artists, activists, and cultural leaders from the United States and Africa, fostering reciprocal, collaborative, and ongoing relationships across geographies and experiences.

  • Founder Kemi Ilesanmi initiated project and collaborated with two other key partners to create HueArts NYC - a pioneering research and mapping project of over 500 arts entities in New York City founded by and centering Black and Brown arts, artists, and communities. Under the guidance of Museum Hue, the project has continued to expand nationally.

  • “As a new director I especially appreciated the advice, examples, and resources Kemi shared that allowed me to expand my network/knowledge and affirm my approach to decision-making.”

    Mentoring Client

  • “Kemi is an inspiration. It is rare to meet a professional colleague who genuinely is a champion of your success. She demonstrates this by freely sharing her industry knowledge, networks, and informed perspectives.”

    Former Colleague

  • “My current position tossed me into the fire of executive leadership, and working with Kemi was a great reminder to trust my instincts.”

    Client

I’d love to hear from you