Roy Mehta’s new photography book Revival captures the Afro-Caribbean and Irish communities of Brent. Mark Sealy reflects on what these images mean for us now.
The London Borough of Brent is one of the most diverse areas in the UK, with a rich history of multiculturalism. From 1989 – 1993, photographer Roy Mehta shot exquisite black and white photographs of the daily rituals of its Afro-Caribbean and Irish communities: at home, in the street and at church. These tender images move from profound moments of faith to quiet family moments and to the noisy city outside, each an opportunity for connection and reflection.
Mehta’s photographs of Brent have been published in a new book Revival: London 1989-1993, available now from Hoxton Mini Press. It’s a beautiful publication, one we highly recommend.
Autograph’s Director, Mark Sealy, first encountered these photographs in the early 90s, and a selection appeared in one of our early newsletters. Below, read from Sealy’s new text for Revival, reflecting on community, photography, and what Mehta’s images mean for us now.
Purchase Revival: London 1989 - 1993 from the Hoxton Mini Press website
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Visit Mehta's website and see more of his work
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Revival: London 1989 - 1993 is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
Also supported by Brent 2020 London Borough of Culture, and Spectrum Photographic.
Images courtesy Roy Mehta