Reclamation: Socially Engaged Art and Anti-racism In the Midlands by Jagdish Patel

Surface is delighted to present Reclamation, an exhibition by artist and researcher Jagdish Patel which celebrates the interconnections between socially engaged art and anti-racism through photography, archival artefacts, paintings and video. 

Reclamation explores the history of collaborative art practices, radical decolonial ideas and community engagement, particularly in the Midlands, through a timeline. By examining the connections between the community art movement and anti-racist campaigners the exhibition highlights the significant role that art has played and continues to play in society, particularly in addressing citizenship, racism, equality and social justice.

This exhibition seeks to inspire reflection, dialogue and action. By bringing together diverse artistic mediums, Reclamation explores poetry readings from the Indian Workers Association, educational classes by the Westminster Endeavour for Liaison and Development (WELD) and the communal space of the inaugural Nottingham Mela. These stories highlight values of rights, recognition, rupture and resistance which are essential in socially engaged art.

Events and Workshops 

Book Launch: What is Antiracism? And Why it Means Anticapitalism by Arun Kundnani
Monday 26th June, 6pm

Arun Kundnani is a New York based writer and activist. His new book with Verso works through the history of anti-racism through thinkers like C.L.R. James, Claudia Jones and Frantz Fanon and what their work means for the fight against racism today.

Artist Gallery Walk and Talk with Arts-Based Researchers 
Thursday 29th June, 11.30am 

This is not a public event: if you wish to attend, please email patelj45@coventry.ac.uk

Artist Gallery Walk and Talk with Primary’s Social Practice Group

Wednesday 12th July, 6-8pm

This event is hosted by artist-led contemporary visual arts organisation, Primary, as part of the Social Practice Social. This is a monthly discussion forum for artists, programmers, community organisers, activists and others working with participation, collaboration, public space or social change. More details at https://www.weareprimary.org

Weekly Art Workshops with the Muslim Scout Group (TBC)

Reclamation will open in the Main Gallery. As always, there will be a donations bar with ales from local brewery Pheasantry. 

Free Entry: Everyone Welcome