Exhibition in Ipswich aims to broaden horizon for young Black people this Black History Month
The exhibition in Ipswich celebrates successful Black people in Britain.
If you've walked through the Cornhill in Ipswich this Black History Month you would have noticed a photography exhibition featuring inspirational Black people from all walks of life.
It's a section of John Ferguson's Black Britannia project, which focuses on individuals who have achieved success in contemporary Britain.
The display of portraits feature the likes of singer-songwriter Ms Dynamite, surgeon Samantha Tross, jockey Royston Ffrench and former boxer Frank Bruno.
John, who's an Ipswich resident, was Fleet Street's first Black staff photographer and has spent recent years challenging social, economic and cultural inequality, poverty and injustice through his work.
Speaking about his exhibition, he said: "Like many Black people throughout history, the people in the photographs have overcome racism and discrimination, and the legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. This exhibition pays homage to their resilience and inspirational qualities and celebrates their incredible achievements."
"The aim being, first, to inspire younger Black people to broaden their horizons away by providing non-stereotypical role models, and second, to show Ipswich at large, the incredible achievements of individuals away from the all too frequent stereotyping of black people.
"I believe that all too often the Black community is portrayed in a negative light. I want to challenge this preconception by raising people's consciousness and awareness to the fantastic contributions made to Black Britons not only to UK culture but also to the economy at large.
He continued: "I love that this venue is accessible and free to everyone, an important consideration given that part of the target audience I’d hope to attract would be disengaged youth.
"Ipswich is a multicultural town, and through diversity comes strength and cohesion - consciously and subconsciously. This exhibition is a chance for younger people to become inspired by the portraits and stories of these Black men and women."
The free exhibition is running until Sunday 1st November.