Resonate - Sounds in the Gallery

This March, 'Resonate' returns with singer- songwriter Bellah reflecting on Claude's 'Seaport with the Embarkation of the Queen of Sheba.' Join us for a talk and unique music session in Room 36.

The session begins with an introduction to the painting by Gallery Educator Fiona Alderton. Roony ‘RiskyRoadz’ Keefe will lead a conversation with Bellah, exploring her connection to Claude's painting from the National Gallery’s collection, followed by her performance.

Born in Enfield, Bellah began performing in school talent shows and festivals at a young age. In 2019 Bellah released her first EP and debut single ’Never Loved; which was 1Xtra’s Track of the week.

In 2021, Bellah performed her single 'Evil Eye' for Colors X Studios, a key moment that garnered over a million views and secured her a support slot on Tems’ headline tour. She has since performed on the main stages at major festivals, including Wireless, and her own headline tour sold out within minutes.

Her 2022 EP Adultsville marked a pivotal moment in her journey, cementing her as a defining voice in contemporary R&B. Following its release, her achievements have included a BET Award nomination for Best New International Act; nominations for Best R&B/Soul Act at the 2021 and 2023 MOBO Awards; supporting Grammy Award winner Victoria Monét on tour; joining NAO on her US tour; and making her acting debut in the Channel 4 and Hulu hit series Queenie, based on Candice Carty-Williams’ bestselling novel.

Bellah is an inspiring artist whose openness about her physical and mental health, relentless drive for self-improvement, and deep interest with sound itself shine through her music.

Roony 'RiskyRoadz' Keefe is an award-winning music video director and documentary filmmaker. He co-curated 'Grime Stories: From the Corner to the Mainstream', an exhibition at the Museum of London honouring the music, people, and places central to the grime scene and its roots. He has had a number of Royal TV Society nominations. His documentary series Risky Roadz helped kickstart the careers of many MCs in the early days of grime and galvanised the scene’s visual aesthetic. Artists he captured include Skepta, Double E, Kano, Lethal B, Chip, and JME. Standing on both sides of the lens, Roony has various projects on the horizon. Roony's new book 'Grime' tells the unique story of London’s grime scene.

Fiona Alderton is a Gallery Educator and storyteller. With a background in performance, she writes and gives sessions for adults and children, including commissions for various organisations such as the National Portrait Gallery, Dulwich Picture Gallery, and the Royal Opera House in London.