A CIRCLE IS FORMED ⚪️
We commissioned director
@mellozwrld to create a film in response to The 80s: Photographing Britain exhibition
Read his thoughts on the commission below:
“While navigating and internalising the work within The 80s, I was deeply inspired by the many artists, activists, and archivists who used their craft to uphold and preserve Black British stories. Our existence within Babylon is undeniably political; thus, our art is undeniably political too. I experienced a strength and sense of urgency reflective of the upheaval in the 80s at the time.
A Circle is Formed is presented through the eyes of our protagonist, a photographer who explores the power of images in connecting past and present. We watch her set out on a photo walk as her mother leads a prayer, becoming the film’s narrator. She reflects on how her daughter’s photography weaves her into a legacy of British image-makers, activists, and community pillars alike. Our mother’s voice, in the film is a moment of libation and homage to all those whose work contributed to the collective documentation of the ’80s.
The film begins and ends at Tate, symbolising a perfect circle, her journey shaped by inspiration from the past while contributing to its archives, to be experienced by future generations.
As a photographer and director, my practice is to follow the light, to see beyond what can be seen, and to hear beyond what can be heard. It is undeniable that my ability to see is a gift, one that connects me to past history, guides me forward, and allows me to contribute to a living archive of work. To move forward is to look back, and thus, a circle is formed.”
Starring
@cassiaagy 
