New Formations

We've joined forces with AFROPUNK ahead of the 2017 AFROPUNK FEST London for an evening of provocation, installation and music inspired by Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power.

Join our line-up of emerging British creatives to discuss multi-disciplinary arts, politics and cultural production in a DIY digital age. Hear from photographer Campbell Addy, stylist and cultural commentator Ayishat Akanbi, director, producer and photographer Nadira Amrani, the Young People's Laureate for London Caleb Femi and artist and writer Isaac Kariuki.

The speakers will reflect on the rise of collective action and the social and civic responsibilities of British artists of colour. We'll talk about emerging aesthetics and crossovers between the art world and popular culture. We'll also consider the role of creativity and activism in a landscape where the internet and real life often overlap.

After the discussion, London-based soul disciples Touching Bass will take to the decks. Plus, don't miss the chance to experience a VR installation from Abdul Boudiaf and watch films curated by People of Colours.

Campbell Addy is a London based photographer and a recent graduate from Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. Campbell's work is deep routed in portraiture and fashion, and inspired by his culturally diverse upbringing and the nuances of life. Alongside photographic projects, Campbell launched Nii in 2016. Nii consists of Niijournal, a printed publication exploring issues of empowerment and representation within race, and Nii Agency, a casting and modelling agency.

Ayishat Akanbi is a fashion stylist, writer, cultural commentator and artist based in London. Her keen interest in socio-political issues, music and culture has attracted the attention of a number of institutions and reputable brands, and Ayishat regularly lends her voice in the form of public speaking to budding creators and young entrepreneurs and academics.

Nadira Amrani is a British Algerian filmmaker and photographer who blends documentary with fiction, and founder of The People Of Colours collective. She is interested in ‘diversity’ and challenging the film industry’s inclusivity. Via POC Nadira curates events, commissions and talks publicly around authentic ‘diversity’ and the digital community.

Caleb Femi is the Young People's Laureate for London, an English teacher, filmmaker and photographer. His documentaries What Did Love Taste Like In The 70s? and Heartbreak & Grime have led him to lead talks and panel discussions on the topics of grime music, roadman culture and masculinity. Caleb is an active member of People of Colours and SXWKS.

Isaac Kariuki is a visual artist and writer based between London and Nairobi. His work explores themes of identity, technology and popular culture. He is the founder of Diaspora Drama, a biannual publication exploring themes of technology and people of colour. His work has been exhibited globally and his writing has been featured in several print and online publications.