A new photography show looking at life in Britain’s black communities during the ’70s and early ’80s is coming to London this weekend.
The exhibition, titled Back In The Day, will spotlight 25 images that address the politics of race and representation in the UK. It is tied to the upcoming release of Idris Elba’s directorial debut Yardie –which follows the story of a young Jamaican man in ’80s London as he attempts to avenge the death of his brother.
All of the shots featured in the show will be supplied by Autograph – a Hackney-based arts charity which aims to explore “cultural identity, human rights and social justice” through the use of visual arts. Photographers featured include Bandele ‘Tex’ Ajetunmobi, Raphael Albert, Armet Francis, Colin Jones, Neil Kenlock, Dennis Morris, Charlie Philips, and Syd Shelton.
Back In The Day will run at Hackney Picturehouse from August 18 to September 2.
Colin Jones, Untitled, from the series The Black House, 1973-1976
Armet Francis, Fashion Shoot, Brixton Market, London, 1973.
Colin Jones, Untitled, from the series The Black House, 1973-1976
Raphael Albert, Miss Black & Beautiful Sybil McLean with fellow contestants, Hammersmith Palais, London, 1972
Colin Jones, Jamaica, late 1970s
Colin Jones, Untitled, from the series The Black House, 1973-1976
Colin Jones, Untitled, from the series The Black House, 1973-1976
Raphael Albert, Miss Black & Beautiful contest, Hammersmith, London, 1970s
Tex Ajentunmobi, Untitled, East End, London, 1970s
Back in the Day: The Autograph Archive will be on show at the Hackney Picturehouse from August 18 to September 2.
Yardie will be in cinemas August 31. Special nationwide preview screenings, including a live satellite Q&A with Idris Elba, take place on August 23.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
Shawn Walker’s layered, psychedelic vision of Harlem’s streets
From BeBop to Illusion — Using glass as a means to illuminate the city’s different layers, the longtime photographer and filmmaker is publishing his first monograph at the age of 86.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In photos: The enduring resistance of Notting Hill Carnival
Carnival of Resistance — A new photobook by Wayne Campbell and Wayne Crichlow reflects on the protest beginnings of Europe’s biggest street festival, along with the traditions keeping its original spirit alive today.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Washing strangers’ feet at Houghton Festival
Pedilavium — As part of artist Henry Krokatsis’s performance piece at the weekender, we sat down with over 30 others to clean the dusty digits of passersby, while reflecting on the power of collective ritual and human connection.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Yoshiwara, Japan’s oldest red light district
Asasuka soaplands — Despite numerous fires and harshening sex work laws, the centuries old area continues to persevere in East Tokyo. Manami Okazaki traces its history and meets people who shape its present.
Written by: Manami Okazaki
Lost photos from the heyday of punk and new wave
Crash Bang — DB Burkeman’s latest photobook unearths photographs from his younger years as an aspiring music photographer, which sat undeveloped in his family home for decades.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Gold-tinged togetherness as Londoners flock to Primrose Hill for the solar eclipse
Celestial gathering — Ella Glossop photographs the once in decades event from one the city’s most popular gathering spots, and the community spirit that encapsulated the moment.
Written by: Ella Glossop
