Queenie Series Pays Touching Tribute to Artist Khadija Saye

Queenie, the new comedy drama series, has garnered admiration for its poignant reference to the late artist Khadija Saye, who tragically lost her life in the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.

The show, based on Candice Carty-Williams’ bestselling novel, revolves around British-Jamaican journalist Queenie, portrayed by Dionne Brown, who holds a position as a social media assistant at the fictitious publication The Daily Reader.

In a scene where Queenie presents a new concept to her boss, portrayed by Russell Tovey, she highlights Saye’s art, emphasizing the need for increased recognition and appreciation from both the media and society at large.

“Mary Seacole, Maragret Busby, Olive Morris, Claudia Jones, Khadija Saye,” Queenie mentions, “Black women throughout history whose narratives and societal contributions warrant mainstream acknowledgment.”

While Queenie’s proposal doesn’t receive a positive reception within the episode, viewers have commended the series for including Saye’s name and her impactful legacy.

Khadija Saye, an emerging artist, tragically perished alongside her mother Mary Mendy in their flat on the 20th floor of Grenfell Tower during the devastating fire that took place in June 2017.

Saye was poised for notable recognition at the time of her passing, having been chosen to exhibit her work at the prestigious Venice Biennale as part of the UK’s Diaspora Pavilion, a considerable achievement for any artist, let alone the youngest one ever selected.

Khadija Saye’s artistic portfolio predominantly comprised intricate photographs and prints, often featuring intimate and personal portraits.

Following the heartbreaking news of her demise, the International Curators Forum paid tribute to Saye, recognizing her as a genuine artist with a unique and compassionate vision.

Tottenham MP David Lammy verified Saye’s passing, having known the artist through his wife Nicola Green, who had mentored Saye for a four-year period.

Nicola Green shared with the Press Association that Saye had last reached out at 3am on the night of the fire, desperately seeking help as she and her mom were trapped in their flat engulfed by thick smoke.