Running from 20th September to 6th October 2024, this exhibition will showcase a selection of the finest Black British Artisans working in the UK today.
The exhibition presents a rare and diverse collection of talents across various artisan disciplines ranging from clay, metal, and wood, to ceramics and glass, featuring both traditional and cultural formats.
Curated by social documentary photographer Jo Sealy, "The Black Artisans" exhibition spotlights 36 exceptional artisans, demonstrating a breadth of skills rarely seen together. Each artist brings a unique perspective and technique, creating a vibrant tapestry of craftsmanship that celebrates the richness of Black British artisan heritage.
The Haworth Art Gallery, known as one of Lancashire’s finest Arts & Crafts houses, provides a fitting venue for this inspiring showcase. Visitors to the exhibition will not only have the chance to view the photography showing the artisans at work, but can also meet some of the artisans at a selection of demonstration talks. Short films will be available to view, enabling visitors to delve into the artisans' personal journeys, exploring their routes into specific areas of making, their influences, and their challenges as a craftsperson.
Additionally, "Conversations in Creativity," a bookable event, will form part of the exhibition programme, brought to you in collaboration with Creative Lancashire. This event aims to foster dialogue and encourage creativity within the community. The event taking place on 25th September will feature Jo Sealey (Black Artisans), alongside Donald Baugh (Artist & Designer/Maker: Wood) and Jason Stocks-Young (Leather Craftsman). The panel will be completed by Vanley Burke, described as the 'godfather of Black British photography'. The conversation will be facilitated by Lucille Junkere (Artist & Academic) and will explore themes related to the exhibition and the respective experiences of the creative practitioners from their individual perspectives.
Jo Sealy explains, "I am excited to be able to exhibit the full body of images so far in such a wonderful arts and crafts location, showcasing the magnificent artisans that form part of this growing network."
Ed Matthews-Gentle (Creative Lancashire) added, "This extended and expanded presentation of The Black Artisans augments our relationship established through our previous collaboration for National Festival of Making in Blackburn (July 2024). Black Artisans forms part of our curated programme of events and presentations for Black History Month (UK). It shines a light on the rich making heritage within our own diverse communities and connections to global cultures."
To find out more click here.
Venue: Haworth Art Gallery, Hollins Lane, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 2JS
Exhibition Dates: Thursday 19th September to Sunday 6th October
Private View: 6-8pm Friday 20th September
Exhibition Opening Times: 12-4pm - Wednesday to Sunday
Meet the Maker: Jahday Ford: 2-3.30pm – Thursday 3rd October
Workshop Demonstrations: Adaesi Ukairo & Judith Annekie-Eriksen: 12.30-3.30pm – Sun 6 October