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
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In the pit at one of the UK’s last stock car & banger speedways
Stock Car Racing Isn’t Dead — Photographer Liam McCarthy spent time in and around the Arlington Raceway’s circuit, capturing the diehard community that keeps the sport alive.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Lower Duck Pond, the nicest town on the internet
/r/HaveWeMet — With a population of 2,500 and no fixed location, the subreddit is a space for roleplaying citizens to solve mysteries, host fictional events and ultimately connect. In an internet that’s often divided and toxic, Vicky Jessop hangs out in one of its most wholesome corners.
Written by: Vicky Jessop
A major Nan Goldin exhibition is coming to London
You Never Did Anything Wrong — Opening at the Hayward Gallery in November, the show will debut a new film from the artist and activist, alongside a slate of recent work.
Written by: Jack Dennison-Thompson