In a groundbreaking move, Liverpool’s historic Walker Art Gallery is hosting “Conversations,” a landmark exhibition showcasing the work of over 40 Black female and non-binary artists. The show marks a significant step towards addressing the severe underrepresentation of Black women’s voices in the gallery’s vast collection.
Amplifying Unheard Voices
According to sources close to the gallery, a shocking discovery revealed that out of the Walker’s 13,000-piece collection, only two artworks were created by Black women. In a city with the oldest settled Black community in the UK, this glaring disparity demanded action. “Conversations” curator Sumuyya Khader, who grew up in Liverpool’s historically Black neighborhood, set out to challenge the status quo and amplify the voices of talented Black women artists.
Immersive Soundscapes
From the moment visitors step into the exhibition, they are greeted by the powerful beats of Jamaican dancehall music reverberating through the galleries. Artist Zinzi Minott’s immersive sound installation, “Bloodsound,” sets the tone for the show, reminding audiences that the rhythms and melodies of reggae are not merely entertainment but the legacy of a centuries-old struggle.
“I want people to go in, hear the beat and the bass and be like, ‘Ohhhhh!'” Khader exclaims, emphasizing the impact she hopes the exhibit will have on visitors.
Bridging Generations
“Conversations” brings together artists from different generations, showcasing the rich history and evolution of Black women’s art in Britain. Pioneers of the Black Arts Movement of the 1980s, such as Lubaina Himid, Maud Sulter, and Claudette Johnson, are exhibited alongside emerging talents like Joy Labinjo and Olivia Sterling, whose thought-provoking works challenge societal norms and spark important dialogues.
“I hope it inspires,” says artist Sharon Walters, who has two pieces in the show. “There has been that feeling of taking up space, but this truly is taking up space.”
A Turning Point
The Walker Gallery has since acquired three more pieces by Black female artists and plans to continue expanding its collection. Khader hopes that “Conversations” marks a turning point, where the art on the gallery’s walls begins to represent the diverse city it serves. However, she acknowledges the challenges ahead, as the scales need to tip to the point where a show like this is no longer seen as radical or different, but simply as a contemporary art exhibition.
As visitors immerse themselves in the powerful works on display, “Conversations” invites them to engage in a dialogue about representation, identity, and the vital role Black women artists play in shaping the cultural landscape. This groundbreaking exhibition is not just a showcase of talent; it is a call to action, urging institutions to reassess their collections and amplify the voices that have been historically silenced.
With its bold vision and commitment to change, “Conversations” is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and undeniable impact of Black women in the art world. As the exhibition continues to captivate audiences, it serves as a reminder that true representation is not a mere gesture but an ongoing conversation that demands active participation from artists, curators, and the public alike.
