Events showcasing Black Culture this summer

So I'm back, after months of procrastination I finally have the time to dedicate to starting this blog. Since this is my first post, I thought why not share some of the events that I will be attending this summer which celebrates Black culture. Hopefully, some of these events are of interests to others and I advocate we all try to support the work of our brothers and sisters. 

Raphael Albert Miss Black and Beautiful 8 JULY - 24 SEPTEMBER 2016 @ RIVINGTON PLACE

Autograph ABP which is based in London where it runs a photography gallery and a programme of talks and educational activities. They showcase artists and artwork which draw attention to cultural identity, race, representation and human rights. Amongst a number of exhibitions that will be on show, I will be checking out Aida Silvestri: Unsterile Clinic, which raises awareness on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and photographs by the late Raphael Albert who documented numerous black beauty pageants and other cultural events in London. So while out and about in London make sure to check out Autograph ABP and amazing work they have on show.

The Hard Stop in Cinema 15 July

We all remember the killing of Mark Duggan in 2011 which shed a light on misconduct in the police force. His death sparked the 2011 London riots in several London boroughs and in cities across the country. The Hard stop documents the life of Mark Duggan from the perspective of  his friends and family and follows their lives and how they are coping with the death of Mark. it essentially presents a narrative of Mark Duggan away from the media portrayal of his death and the aftermath. Hard Stop is out in cinema  15th July and I definitely know I won't be missing it. 

The Black Market & Film Festival

The Black History Studies are amazing and applaud them for all the work they do to showcase and educate on black history. I would advise everyone to check out their website (http://www.blackhistorystudies.com).  This summer they are organising The Black market & Film Festival on July 30th. I already know this will be a momentous eventful day which will involve a number of activities from a number of film screenings to opportunities to support black owned business who will have stalls showcasing their products. The festival is £6.50 in advance or £8.50 on the door so don't forget to come support and educate yourselves.

I am so excited for Africa fashion week as I wasn't able to go last year so I'm really looking forward to seeing the great lineup of designers showcasing African inspired fashion. Tickets are £20 for standard and £40 for VIP which I think is worth it from what I've heard as its a great atmosphere to be as your able to network and meet new people. Most importantly you have the opportunity to buy products by black-owned business which is GREAT!. 

Other events to keep in mind

Time Travellers to Crop Pickers by Alvin Kofi explores the ancient cultures of Africa; examining the origins of our food and the many women who and harvest them. 

Black Chronicles Photographic Portraits 1862-1948: 18 MAY - 11 DECEMBER 2016  @ NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY.

Africa Art Showcase  ON FRIDAY 29 JULY 2016 @  THE UNIT GALLERY IN HACKNEY. the exhibition will be featuring a unique selection of artist from Zimbabwe,Nigeria and Sudan.  

Comment below if you know other events to check out this summer :)