Colin Jones (1936 – 2021)

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Colin Jones, acclaimed photographer and great friend of Autograph, who has recently died after a short illness.

"Colin Jones was one of the most generous and kind photographers I had the pleasure to encounter and collaborate with over the years at Autograph. Such incredible skills as a photojournalist and artist, paired with his sincere compassion, empathy, and commitment were rare: he genuinely cared about people, and the representation of different communities – long term, genuinely and in a very personal way. Colin’s home studio attic slide shows were legendary, and a real privilege to experience... Within minutes, he would magically transport you to far-away places, take you on a journey down the Congo River, to struggling mining communities in post war Britain, into the heart of anti-racist demonstrations, and bring you back to his intimate portraitures at the Harambee housing project in 1970s north London, arguably one of the most important bodies of work representing the black experience in the UK. He is truly, truly missed."

— Renée Mussai, Senior Curator / Head of Curatorial & Collections at Autograph

Jones actively supported Autograph's mission and programmes, notably speaking at our gallery symposium The Missing Chapter in 2011, and generously donating more than 100 vintage and modern prints from his renowned series The Black House 1973–76  to Autograph's collection of photography.

We are grateful for his advocacy and support, and honoured to have known him as a friend, colleague and collaborator. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.