The Chi is coming to an end, with its eighth and final season on the air bringing memories, laughs, tears and plenty of reflection with it. After nearly a decade of uplifting and centering Black women and the communities they foster in Chicago, the show’s impact on the city, its perception and characters that make it will last the test of time.
Even though it’s The Chi’s last dance, that doesn’t mean we have to stop giving women their flowers. Shani Crowe is an interdisciplinary artist from Chicago who uses Black beauty culture and African aesthetics to foster unity and connectivity. Her most notable works are her intricate braided styles and her portraits of them.
“I hope women understand that they are worthy of goodness in their lives. If that comes from peaceful solitude or loud celebration. You deserve to feel contentment.”
Channeling The Chi’s uplifting attitude, Crowe is paying tribute to her friend and fellow Chicago creative Chelsey Carter-Sanders this season. A fashion graduate of School of the Art Institute of Chicago and founder of Alex Carter, she is another testament to the talent the city continues to produce year after year.
We talked to Crowe about her creative process, the city that shaped her and what it means to give someone their flowers. Keep scrolling to read the full conversation.
How did you get started in your medium?
I learned to braid when I was around 5 years old. I had clients by the time I was 11. My father and older brother are artists so I grew up immersed in art materials and have been creating for as long as I can remember. I was always the photographer in my friend group and enjoyed documenting socially and artistically. Once I combined by love of braiding with my photography, my work started to become popular.
How has Chicago shaped who you are as an artist?
I come from a community in Chicago that celebrates our African ancestry and promotes the creative arts, especially traditional African art forms. Having a positive self image, and pride in the history and legacy of Black people and people of African descent, is central to the work I create. My upbringing informs and the ideas and themes I propagate in my practice, and my general world view.
What does Chicago look like through your eyes — what parts of the city live in your work?
I’m from the Southside, so I take Terror Town, Chatham, Pocket Town and the “Wild Hundreds”with me as they are where I lived and spent most of my formative years. The houses, murals and parks I passed on a daily basis in these neighborhoods stand out to me. The skyline and lakefront are the most iconic parts of the city.
Why was it important to keep your craft and studio rooted here?
I have a strong family and community here in Chicago who support me as I support them. My work wouldn’t be possible without that support. Also it’s affordable. As I grow in my work and the neighborhood I grew up in improves, I want to be around to see the positive change.
What do you think makes Chicago women different?
I think Chicago women have a bit of grit to them. Especially ones who have had to traverse the sometimes challenging neighborhoods and environments that Black people inhabit in this city. Chicago has a unique flavor that has impacted mainstream culture. As a creative you have to be focused because Chicago isn’t as easily aligned with success, access and exposure as New York or L.A.
What does “giving someone their flowers” mean to you personally?
I think it means to acknowledge their light and celebrate their achievements. I especially think about celebrating and lauding people while they are still healthy, able, and full of life. Flowers aren’t just for the deceased.
How do you practice that in your day-to-day — with your community, your peers?
I’m a words of affirmation person, so I love to tell my friends I love them, and remind them of their positive qualities. I’m also very grateful. It’s not lost on me that no one is obligated to help me. There isn’t anyone who has helped me who I haven’t thanked profusely and spoken highly of. I also try to return the favor when I can. I’m always willing to be there for the people I love.
“I think Chicago women have a bit of grit to them. Especially ones who have had to traverse the sometimes challenging neighborhoods and environments that Black people inhabit in this city.”
Why do you think women, specifically, need to hear it out loud and often?
Women do a lot of work that often goes unnoticed. Also, biologically, the cocktail of hormones can make functioning normally quite challenging. Being able to show up and get things done with an internal tornado brewing is commendable.
What do you hope women watching The Chi take with them — about seeing themselves, their city?
I hope women understand that they are worthy of goodness in their lives. If that comes from peaceful solitude or loud celebration. You deserve to feel contentment.
How did you and Chelsey find each other?
I met Chelsey about 13 years ago through mutual friends and the Chicago creative community. A lot of the artsy kids occupied the same spaces.
“She’s an amazing designer, but she’s also one of the best people I know. Her character and integrity permeate everything she does.”
What was the moment you knew she was your people?
She’s my Leo sister, so that was a point of connection. We have just always had good banter and appreciate each other’s humor.
Describe Chelsey’s work to someone who’s never seen it — what makes it stop-you-in-your-tracks?
Chelsey is a brilliant fashion designer, with excellent taste. She really shines with upcycling and can make anything out of recycled clothing which is sustainable and good for the planet. She plays with proportion in a unique way, and She tailors her work impeccably. She always makes my body look good, which I’m sure stops some people in their tracks.
How has knowing her or watching her work changed or inspired you?
Chelsey has made almost every outfit I’ve worn to my openings, so she has been a part of moments that have changed my life. She’s such a good friend to me as well as a collaborator. I love how dutiful she is in her own work and in her relationships. She’s very protective and wants the best for the people she loves. Her Care and integrity are apparent in her output. I see her as a very organized and high functioning person, and I aspire to be as together as she is.
What do you want Chicago — and the world — to know about her?
She’s an amazing designer, but she’s also one of the best people I know. Her character and integrity permeate everything she does.
Why Chelsey, why now — why does she deserve her flowers today?
I’d give her flowers every time I saw her if I could. I know it’s hard to live your creative dreams. It’s volatile and requires all of your attention. Every success and failure is in your hands. She does it well and makes it look easy. So It’s so easy for me to honor her because it’s just telling the truth.
If you could say one thing to her, just from you, what would it be?
Thank you so much for being a good friend to me. You’ve been there for me during some really challenging times. You are a rock for so many people, a great collaborator, and an invaluable addition to any endeavor. I love you so much and it’s truly a pleasure to shine a light on all that you are. Love you friend!
The final season of The Chi is now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ with the Paramount+ Premium Plan.
