Jemila Isa was born in 1989 in London and lives there.

Born to parents of Nigerian descent, her practice engages with themes of spirituality, inherited narratives, womanhood and the tension of locating the self amidst tradition.

Held by invisible hands marks her first solo exhibition. She has participated in group exhibitions including In her spirit at Bolanle Contemporary, in collaboration with Sadie Coles HQ, London (2025); Unvisited Dreams: Memories in practice; at Black Curatorial, in collaboration with Lofty Spot, London (2024); Catharsis at Chelsea Centre for Creative Industries, London (2024); and Works on Paper 6, Blue Shop Gallery, London (2024).

She completed the Black Blossoms Studio Residency in January 2025 and was awarded the DYCP grant from Art Council England in 2024