Black History Month exhibition comes to Solent

Solent is proud to be chosen as one of seven unique locations across the city to host the exhibition, which is open to the public between Tuesday 1 and Thursday 31 October 2024.

Aligning with Black History Month's national theme, Reclaiming Narratives - which seeks to highlight the overlooked stories and contributions of Black communities - the exhibition includes portraits, captured by Nosa Malcolm, of some of Southampton's most recognised residents. The images tell the subject's stories and explore how they see themselves, providing a thoughtful stimulus for conversation around race and identity, giving communities an opportunity to discuss issues they might find challenging.

Committed to creating an inclusive and safe environment in which to facilitate this kind of experience, The Spark at Solent's East Park Terrace campus will be open to the public for free viewing of this must-see exhibition throughout October.

Southampton Solent University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Knowles, says:

"Though the UK has made many positive strides forward in equality, diversity and inclusion, we must acknowledge that there is still more to be done. Universities have a key role to play; our diverse communities bring together many different perspectives and experiences. Institutions like ours must work collaboratively to foster important conversations that can lead to positive change.

"At Solent, we are proud to work with Black History Month South to support their programme, which is so important in bringing together communities and affecting change. I encourage everyone to visit our campus this October to view 'Colourism', which is an important and accessible installation for all the community."

Solent has worked closely with Black History Month South for many years, and in 2019 recognised founder, Dr Don John, with an Honorary Doctorate in the arts. Well-known throughout the region and further afield, Don has played a crucial role in the development of race and diversity policies at Southampton City Council and has been pivotal in many of the city's major projects created to spotlight and celebrate the Black community. Don says:

"Colourism is the value that we attach to people of different complexions and this exhibition continues the conversation as to why this has been a significant issue in the lives of Black and Brown communities."

On Tuesday 29 October, as Black History Month comes to a close, staff and students at Solent will come together to explore the concept of the exhibition and meet some of the people in the portraits, learning more about their stories and inspiring important conversations.

Solent will also be at The Black Business, Art and Music (BBAM) Festival on Saturday 28 September, led by Doctor Abdoulie Sanneh and The United Voices of African Associations (TUVAA).

A proudly diverse community, Solent puts equality, diversity and inclusion at the forefront of everything it does. Find out more here.