Black Photography: 1980s Rebellion to Renaissance Through the Lens of Ian Watts

 Through this creative collaboration, the power of visual and auditory storytelling will come to life, exploring the iconic visual narrative of the Black liberation movements across continents during the 1980s. A live soundscape from musician Blackmale Beats will complement the conversation, creating a multi-sensory experience that enhances the themes including: The Power of Music: Sounds of Social Change; Community Resilience: Strength in Unity; A Journey of Community: From the UK to Jamaica; and Voices of Resistance: Black Activism in the 1980s. The talk promises an engaging and reflective journey through this pivotal period of Black photography making, and its place in reflecting global Black history.

 

From the vibrant music scenes of Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and Nina Simone, Ian’s images explore how music became a potent tool for social change globally, in contrast to the strength and resilience of UK Black community captured on the streets at the Harlesden Anti-Racist March. Ian and Ayesha will draw on prominent luminaries James Baldwin, Angela Davis, and Kwame Ture and other notable revolutionaries, further deepening our understanding of how Watts’ work captured Black struggle and solidarity worldwide. This immersive retrospective of imagery will reflect on how Watts' work resonates today, as contemporary movements for social justice draw inspiration from the same spirit of rebellion, creativity, and solidarity. 

Detailed event programme to be announced.