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Tate Britain Talk

Through the Lens of Time Ajamu X and J.G. Basdew in conversation with Campbell Addy and Stephen Isaac-Wilson

25 January 2025 at 16.30–18.00
A black and white portrait of two men.

Ajamu X and J.G. Basdew, November 2024. Photo courtesy of the artists in collaboration with Shane Sutherland.

Hear a discussion on photography as a tool for resistance and connection

Ajamu X and J.G. Basdew will reflect on the activism and creative output of the 1980s, emphasising how intergenerational dialogue fosters understanding, solidarity, and new approaches to addressing contemporary social challenges. They will be joined by photographers Campbell Addy and Stephen Isaac-Wilson. 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.

Ajamu X

Ajamu X (FRPS) is a darkroom/fine art photographic artist. His practice places the sensual -material attributes of production, making and process at the centre of the work and whose subject matter is similarly focused on sensuality. His images privilege those tangible/tactile sensuous elements of a socially engaged photographic practice which literally/metaphorically rubs up against the flattening out of photographic practices  to simple and  staid notions of identity - thinking and representation. His work has been exhibited in many prestigious museums, galleries worldwide and alternative spaces worldwide. In 2022, he was canonised by The Trans Pennine Travelling Sisters/Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence as the Patron Saint of Darkrooms and received an honorary fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society. His work sits within many private and public collections including: The Rose Art Museum, Gallery of Modern Art, Autograph, Tate Britain, Arts Council of England, and the Victoria & Albert Museum.

J.G. Basdew

J.G. Basdew is a curator, artist, and cultural strategist whose work bridges arts, culture, and community engagement. An emerging voice in the international arts and culture landscape, Basdew draws on his background in business and geopolitics to shape bsdwcorp.—an artistic practice exploring identity, inclusion, intersectionality, and social cohesion. His multidisciplinary work spans performance art, curation, writing, theater-making, and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue.

Central to his practice is yazija, a long-duration performance examining gender roles, male vulnerability, and identity’s fluidity. Guided by the belief that creativity can transform society, Basdew amplifies marginalized voices, fosters intergenerational dialogue, and approaches his work through an intersectional lens to challenge norms and inspire empathy.

Alongside his artistic practice, Basdew serves in high-profile advisory roles within leading cultural institutions, advancing equity, diversity, and innovation. His work reimagines the power of art, shaping a bold vision for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Campbell Addy

British-Ghanaian artist, photographer and director Campbell Addy draws inspiration from his culturally diverse upbringing, this has informed an intricate discovery of the self and a unique eye. Since graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2016 Addy’s striking imagery has garnered him international success and awards including the 2021 Forbes 30 under 30 list and the British Fashion Awards in both 2018 & 19. His first monograph ‘Feeling Seen - the photographs of Campbell Addy’ debuted in 2022 to critical acclaim.

In 2023 Addy collaborated with 180 Studios to create the major solo exhibition, I ❤ Campbell. Featuring a newly conceived set of images, original paintings and a short film shot on location in Ghana, I ❤ Campbell reflected a personal meditation on the artist's roots and inspirations. Following a year of much artistic growth in 2023 The British Fashion Council awarded Addy the Isabella Blow award for Fashion Creator.

Stephen Isaac-Wilson

Based in London, Stephen has built a strong reputation in the fields of art, fashion, and music videos. His work as a visual artist has been commissioned by and exhibited at institutions such as Tate Britain. With a natural talent for forming creative partnerships, he has collaborated with Neneh Cherry, Isaac Julien, Kaytranada, and Ib Kamara. Stephen’s style combines his background in journalism with a distinct visual approach, resulting in emotive and thought-provoking stories. His work is often driven by themes of race, sexuality, intimacy, and a deep appreciation for the human experience.

There is step-free access from the Clore Entrance through to the auditorium.

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The Clore Auditorium

Millbank
London SW1P 4RG
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Date & Time

25 January 2025 at 16.30–18.00

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