about us

At Classically Black, we celebrate the brilliance, artistry, and cultural legacy of Black classical and fine-arts talent. Our mission is to craft immersive, elevated experiences—where world-class music, visual storytelling, and Black-owned luxury converge. Rooted in legacy yet forward-looking, we curate salons, showcases and events that invite you into an intimate cultural space: one of discovery, excellence and shared pride.

Meet Our Founder + Artistic Director

Ashley James — Chef, Curator & Cultural Visionary

Ashley James is a Michelin-trained chef and international luxury hospitality expert whose journey spans the United States and Europe. From artisan food-production on a Connecticut farm, to reopening the legendary Rainbow Room in New York City as sous chef, and working in a Michelin-starred restaurant in London, Ashley brings a rich blend of culinary mastery and global culture.

In May 2016, Ashley co-founded Stagolees, a Southern fried chicken and liquor destination in West London that earned rave reviews.

Today, she consults domestically & internationally on high-end restaurants and members’ clubs, curates luxury events and private dinners—and has launched the wine label J & H Estates with partner Shia Hendricks.

Her visionary leadership at Classically Black channels this deep hospitality background into creating refined arts experiences—where each event is choreographed like a culinary-themed salon, combining taste, sound, sight and community.

Why We Do What We Do

In a cultural landscape where Black classical and fine-arts voices are often under-represented, Classically Black exists to reframe the narrative. We believe that excellence in music, visual art, and luxury hospitality are deeply interconnected—and that by bringing them together, we forge a unique and powerful space for creative expression and cultural affirmation.

We host salons, performances, exhibitions and tastings that speak to heritage, aspiration and artistry. We invite our audience to enter this world, not just as spectators—but as participants in a refined celebration of Black creativity.

Join Us

Whether you’re attending a salon, exploring our video gallery, being a patron of our Arts Foundation or aligning with our events and partners—you are stepping into a space of intention, elegance and community. Stay connected for upcoming events, featured artists and exclusive experiences.

Thank you for being part of the journey with Classically Black—where culture meets elegance, and Black art takes center stage.