Join us in conversation with creatives who document the personal style of London's vibrant communities. Inspired by our new exhibition of Eileen Perrier's photography, we will consider how fashion serves as a powerful tool for self-expression.
This gallery talk will take place surrounded by the portraits in Perrier's exhibition A Thousand Small Stories. Often using makeshift studios, Perrier brings her sitters together around shared experiences of kinship, interests or place. Her work has evolved into a form of social engagement that powerfully visualises individuality – encouraging us to look beyond social and cultural divides.
After the talk, you can enjoy a complimentary drink in Autograph's Studio, plus visit our exhibitions.
This event will be led by stylist, curator and producer Ruth Mbu, with further speakers confirmed soon.
The ticket price for this event is £5. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If this ticket price is unaffordable for you please get in touch with Harriet at harriet@autograph-abp.co.uk about free ticketing options.
Free Exhibition
Contemplating class, cultural identity and belonging through the photographic portrait
Ruth Mbu is a multidisciplinary creative practitioner exploring social history and contemporary culture through archiving, public programming, event production and curation.
Passionate about the intersection of fashion, politics, and identity, Ruth is particularly drawn to how fashion serves as a vehicle for expressing and challenging social narratives, especially within Black and queer communities. Through her work, she seeks to create meaningful cultural exchanges that foster dialogue, representation, and accessibility. She is committed to amplifying underrepresented voices and uncovering stories that shape the collective cultural landscape.
Everyone is welcome at Autograph. Planning a visit? Have a look at our Visit Us page to find out more about getting to the gallery, accessibility and more.
Each year, Autograph has an Open Call for event proposals from emerging cultural producers who are working on a new or early stage project. For successful applicants, Autograph provides a budget, curatorial fee, and support to help make the event happen. This event is a result of our 2024 Open Call for Events: Spirit of London.
Autograph's events are popular, and often sell out. We recommend booking a ticket in advance. If you need to cancel your ticket for any reason, you can receive a refund up to 24 hours before the start of the event. You do not need to bring your paper ticket to the event.
The ticket price for this event is £5. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If this ticket price is unaffordable for you please get in touch with Harriet at harriet@autograph-abp.co.uk about free ticketing options.
Banner image: Eileen Perrier, from the series Blessing [detail], 2002. Commissioned by The Photographers’ Gallery. Courtesy the artist and Autograph, London
Images on page: 1) Eileen Perrier, from the series Ghana [detail], 1995-96. © and courtesy the artist. 2) Courtesy Ruth Mbu. 3) Autograph, London. Photograph by Kate Elliott.
Autograph is a place to see things differently. Since 1988, we have championed photography that explores issues of race, identity, representation, human rights and social justice, sharing how photographs reflect lived experiences and shape our understanding of ourselves and others.