Honouring Laurel Brumant-Palmer: A Creative Force in the Fight Against Sickle Cell
This September, as part of our Moon Crescent Blood exhibition at Boxpark Shoreditch & Croydon, Akanji Studio Wellness CIC is proud to showcase the work of Laurel Brumant-Palmer (age 61) a remarkable artist, advocate, and member of the sickle cell community.
A Journey of Strength and Creativity
Eight years ago, Laurel made the bold decision to pursue her degree in Graphic Design as a mature student living with sickle cell anaemia. Balancing her studies while raising her children and working part-time in a secondary school was no small task, but her determination carried her through. In 2016, she graduated with First Class Honours in BA Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration), an achievement she considers one of the proudest moments of her life.
Her story is not only about academic success, but also about resilience. Living with a chronic blood disorder meant every step forward carried extra weight. Yet Laurel’s journey is proof that perseverance, creativity, and courage can build legacies.
A Turning Point
Today, Laurel is entering a new chapter. For health reasons, she has stepped away from her role in education. It’s a bittersweet transition, but one that has opened the door to fully embrace her art and advocacy. Laurel has said:
“The fight against Sickle Cell continues, stronger than ever, and I refuse to give up. Every challenge has made me more determined, and I believe the best is yet to come.”
Her work is now her voice, her passion, and her contribution to the ongoing fight for awareness and change.
Why Her Story Matters
Laurel’s inclusion in Moon Crescent Blood is not just about art. It’s about honouring the older generation of sickle cell warriors who paved the way for the conversations, awareness, and advocacy we are driving today. Her strength, her journey, and her creativity stand as an example for younger artists and advocates, including Rizzy Akanji, founder of Akanji Studio, who continues to build on the foundation laid by those who came before.
By spotlighting Laurel’s work, we are reminded that this movement is intergenerational. It carries the voices, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us, and it points towards a future where art is not only seen, but felt as a catalyst for change.
Visit Moon Crescent Blood
You can see Laurel’s featured piece alongside 10 new works by Akanji Studio in our Moon Crescent Blood exhibition, running throughout September 2025 at Boxpark Shoreditch and Croydon. Entry is free.
📅 Exhibition Dates: 01/09/25 – 30/09/25
📍 Locations: Boxpark Shoreditch & Croydon
We invite you to come, experience the art, and stand with us in raising awareness of sickle cell and the importance of blood donation.
See the art. Honour the ones who came before us. Be part of the movement.