Christie’s Lates | Voices of Black Artistry | 27 September 2024
Talks
6:20pm | King Street Gallery
Diversifying the Art World
A panel discussion examining the art world in the UK with a spotlight on diversity within collections and exhibitions. Speakers include Kate Haselden, Research Fellow for the Understanding British Portraits Network, Touria El Glaoui, Founding Director 1–54, the first and only international art fair dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora; Madeleine Haddon, Curator V&A East, and moderated by Christie’s specialist Isabel Bardawil.
7:15pm | King Street Gallery
The Power of Shifting the Narrative Through Imagery
A roundtable discussion on how using images can create more opportunities for historically marginalised or underrepresented groups while driving economic growth and fostering social progress. Speakers include Kemi Lawson, creative director of The Cornrow, an Afrocentric home and lifestyle store; Ayotunde Rufai, Co-Founder and CEO of Jendaya; Sukai Eccleston from CasildART Contemporary, a not-for-profit gallery dedicated to addressing the underrepresentation of Black artists, and Eunice Olumide MBE, Scottish supermodel, philanthropist, art curator and consultant.
8:10pm | King Street Gallery
Manifesto for Black Futures II: Modern Legacies and Futurisms
A roundtable discussing the radical influence of Afrofuturism from its early iterations to its cultural impact on current artists and how it continues to expand. The conversation will cover the paradigm-shifting disruptive works of Octavia Butler, the global phenomenon of Black Panther, the transcendent mythic landscapes of artist Lina Iris Viktor and the virtuosic musical offerings of Janelle Monae. Literary activist Kadija George MBE, interdisciplinary artist Hamed Maiye, poet Belinda Zhawi, and author Irenosen Okojie MBE will be part of this important conversation, along with readings from the panel and sound art performances by Belinda Zhawi.
Performances
6:30pm | Great Room
Dynamic and widely acclaimed singer and songwriter Eckoes will perform new music due to be released next year.
7:15pm and 8:30pm | Great Room
Victor Sarpong, British-Ghanaian writer and poet from London, delivers spoken word poetry.
7:30pm | Great Room
Sola Akingbola and the Eegun Rhapsodies present music from their forthcoming album How Should I. The Funky Classical UK Afkanz sound will bring a pulsating and poetic perspective to Christie’s Lates.
Exhibitions and other entertainment — Throughout the evening
Akoje Gallery | Ante Room
Discover works by contemporary artists Olawunmi Banjo, Ibiok Bright, and Giggs Kgole and the history and traditions of masks, inviting viewers into a dialogue about identity and self-discovery.
Akoje Gallery presents Kai Collective | East Room
Credited by British Vogue for creating the ‘hottest dress’ of the summer, Kai Collective showcases five hero pieces from the latest collections in an African fashion photography exhibition.
Akoje Gallery presents The Front Room by Tony Fairweather | New Gallery
This touring exhibition includes all original artefacts from the Windrush era, such as the legendary Caribbean and African Front Room, the Axminster pattern carpet, the drinks bar, Bluespot Gram, vintage glass fish, ornaments, glass cabinets, wallpaper and plastic flowers. This collection is for future generations to learn about the young people who came to the UK from the Caribbean and Africa, many of whom were 18–23 years old.
Asafo flags | Balcony
African Flags of the Fante is dedicated to preserving the art of flag-making in Ghana, working with the remaining artisans and supporting the incredible artists who continue this vibrant tradition.
The Future Room, Co-curated by Charlotte Leseberg Smith and Daniel Etherton | St James’s Galleries
This room will act as a pause in the present and serve as a portal to the future, showcasing how emerging and established Black artists are shaping their practice today. It’s a space for inspiration, activism, rest, love, and simply being.
Black Cultural Archives | King Street Annex
An exhibition from the home of Black British History.
Jendaya: Migration & Memory | Augusta Galleries
Co-curated by Kanaiza, this exhibition celebrates Black History Month by exploring the theme of migration, a significant aspect of the Black experience from both the lens of colonialism and immigration. An interesting juxtaposition, migration represents resilience, hope, displacement and the search for belonging in the attempt to rekindle fond memories from home.
Works by Tonye Ekine | Duke Street Gallery
CasildART Contemporary | Link Corridor
Collection of works presented by CasilART Contemporary, a not-for-profit gallery dedicated to addressing the underrepresentation of Black artists in fine art institutions, commercial galleries, and museums.
Works from Dumfries House | Outside Lower Ryder Street Gallery and Long Gallery
Works by The King’s Foundation Diploma year students and those on The Akoje Residency in Dumfries House.
The Cornrow and Marvel Opera | King Street Annex Window
Sculptures from the Cornrow and Marvel Opera.
Studio Artera presents Chelsea Odufu | West Room
Explore Chelsea Odufu’s latest series, Gold with a Mind of Its Own, captured in Côte d’Ivoire. This Afro-futuristic work reflects on the evolving legacy of gold in Ivorian society, once a symbol of empowerment. Odufu’s vibrant visual storytelling explores themes of identity and Black spirituality, celebrating heritage while challenging contemporary perceptions.
Demonstrations, workshops and refreshments — Throughout the evening
The Music Room | Lower Ryder Street Gallery
Lucky Voice pop-up karaoke
Curated by Dr Mykaell Riley. Sing along to tracks that contribute to the rich tapestry of British music and culture, reflecting the influence of Black British and international artists on the UK music scene.
7pm:Music Q&A with Dr Mykaell Riley
Echoes of Identity: A Self-Portrait Workshop with Ife Masks | Duke Street Annex
Join artist Tonye Ekine for a self-portrait workshop inspired by Ife masks. Create your own self-portrait blending traditional African symbolism with personal expression. All skill levels are welcome. Reflect on culture and creativity while guided by Tonye’s expertise. Sign up required.
Akoje Residency x King’s Foundation Artist in Residence Programme 3D Textile Sculptures Workshop | Long Gallery
Multidisciplinary artist Shanti Bell will lead a workshop in which participants will explore personal identity through fabric sculpting and colour combinations. Sign up required.
Hatchards bookstore pop-up | Gallery Viewing Room
Visit the Hatchards pop-up as they celebrate Black History Month with a book selection embracing both past and present favourites; including a curated selection from Irenosen Okojie.
Severan Wines and Rock Leopard Brewing Company Pay Bar | Duke Street Gallery
Jumbi Peckham Pay Bar | West Room
To browse the previous editions, visit Christie’s Lates or explore on social media using the hashtag #christieslates
