Come along to learn about the experiences, techniques and ideas that shaped the work of artists in the 1980s. See how photography helped empower the voices of communities left behind. Hear artists speak on the deep social changes of this critical decade and how the culture of that time influences art making today.
True to Form: a workshop with Campbell Addy and J.G. Basdew
Drawing inspiration from the The 80s: Photographing Britain, the workshop highlights how artists can cultivate courage and shape meaningful work, even in times of uncertainty. Participants will leave with tools to build and sustain their own authentic voices within the evolving creative landscape.
Location: Taylor Digital Studio
Time: 10.00–12.30
Free with ticket
Disobedient Scaffolds: Sutapa Biswas in Conversation
Biswas' Synapse series (showing in The 80s: Photographing Britain) portray the artist in a performative ritual. Through these images, she explores the idea of 'scaffolding' - a literal and metaphorical framework for building, breaking and repair. Join Biswas and curator Jasmine Chohan for a conversation exploring Biswas’ practice through the lens of 'scaffolding' and disobedience.
Location: Clore Auditorium
Time: 12.00–13.00
£10 / £7 Concessions / £5 for Tate Collective.
Co-curating the Bengali Photo Archive: a workshop with Eleni Parousi
This drop in workshop led by Eleni Parousi will build a collaborative pop-up exhibition that celebrates the vibrant history of the Bengali community in Tower Hamlets from the 1970s to the 1990s, utilising photographs from the Bengali Photo Archive, held by Four Corners Archive. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the community's journey during a transformative period marked by both challenges and resistance.
Location: Clore Studio
Time: 14.30 - 17.00
Free and drop-in (no tickets needed)
Through the Lens of Time: Ajamu X and J.G. Basdew in conversation
Ajamu X and J.G. Basdew will reflect on the activism and creative output of the 1980s, exploring the role of photography as a tool for resistance and connection, emphasising how intergenerational dialogue fosters understanding, solidarity, and new approaches to addressing contemporary social challenges. They will be joined by emerging photographers. Together, they will explore the ongoing influence of the 1980s on their practices and discuss how contemporary photography continues to engage with activism, identity, and cultural legacy.
Location: Clore Auditorium
Time: 16.30–18.00
£10 / £7 Concessions / £5 for Tate Collective.
This event has been provided by Tate Gallery on behalf of Tate Enterprises Ltd.