Ajamu, Umbrella, 2023

For more than 30 years, Ajamu has unapologetically celebrated black queer bodies, the erotic sense and pleasure as activism. He has been at the forefront of genderqueer photography, challenging dominant ideas around masculinity, gender, sexuality and representation of black LGBTQ+ people in the United Kingdom.

Autograph commissioned Ajamu to create a new work drawing on the legacy of black queer photographer Rotimi Fani-Kayode. Ajamu first modelled for Fani-Kayode in the 1980s in Brixton and this new self-portrait – the artist’s first in over a decade – pays homage to the lasting influence of Fani-Kayode’s works on the artist throughout his practice.

For the commission, Ajamu chose to respond to Fani-Kayode’s closely cropped self-portrait Umbrella (1987), reflecting on the profoundly personal and political exploration of desire, diaspora, and spirituality.

Ajamu, Umbrella, 2023
Signed by the artist
Platinum print
Edition of 5 + 2AP
Paper size: 50.8 x 60.96 cm
Image size: approximately 38cm x 54.5
Commissioned by Autograph
With certificate of authenticity issued by Autograph

Limited Edition prints are sent via courier, and are dispatched within 14 working days of purchase to allow for packing and condition checks. You will be emailed details and tracking information for shipment.

Items for collection from our gallery in London will be available for pickup within 14 working days. You will be emailed when your order is ready.

International delivery
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Please note that this sale is for the physical limited edition print only. Copyright is retained by the artist, and this sale does not include reproduction or digital rights for the work.

If resold in the future, the artist may be entitled to the Artist's Resale Right, for more information visit DACS.

Limited Edition prints are released in tiers, and prices will increase as an edition starts to sell out. Prices are subject to change and availability.