Liberation Begins in the Imagination: Writings on Caribbean British Art

A new anthology, "Liberation Begins in the Imagination," explores the Caribbean's contribution to Britain and British art today, featuring previously unpublished texts and essays from influential voices. Contributors include Rasheed Araeen, Coco Fusco, and Stuart Hall.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2021
Publisher: Tate Publishing

Liberation Begins in the Imagination is a groundbreaking new anthology that delves into the profound and multifaceted contribution of the Caribbean to the rich tapestry of Britain and British art today. This comprehensive collection brings together a wealth of existing writings and previously unpublished texts, spanning from the post-war period to the present, alongside insightful and thought-provoking new essays penned by the foremost experts in the field. Serving as an indispensable guide to Caribbean-British art, Liberation Begins in the Imagination offers a comprehensive exploration of the artistic expressions, cultural influences, and historical narratives that have shaped this vibrant and dynamic artistic landscape.

Contributors to this extraordinary anthology include a diverse range of renowned artists, scholars, and intellectuals. Rasheed Araeen, Coco Fusco, Paul Gilroy, Stuart Hall, Roshini Kempadoo, George Lamming, Errol Lloyd, John Lyons, Amna Malik, Courtney J. Martin, Michael McMillan, Kobena Mercer, Richard J. Powell, Elizabeth Robles, Lou Smith, Helen Sumpter, Claire Tancons, Gilane Tawadros, Jessica Taylor, and Yvonne Weekes have all contributed their unique perspectives and insights to this project.

The anthology opens with an introductory essay by renowned art historian and critic Simon Schama, who provides a sweeping historical overview of the Caribbean's role in shaping British art. Schama highlights the significant contributions of Caribbean artists, writers, and intellectuals to the development of modern British art, from the early 20th-century avant-garde movements to the contemporary art scene. He also explores the complex and often fraught relationship between Britain and the Caribbean, examining the historical, cultural, and political factors that have influenced this relationship over the years.

Following the introductory essay, the anthology is divided into several thematic sections, each exploring different aspects of Caribbean-British art. These sections include "The Visual Arts," "Literature and Performance," "Music and Dance," and "Cultural Exchange." Within each section, contributors offer a rich tapestry of essays, interviews, and artwork that showcase the diverse and dynamic artistic expressions of the Caribbean community in Britain.

One of the key themes that emerge throughout the anthology is the celebration of Caribbean identity and heritage. Contributors explore the ways in which Caribbean artists have used their art to express their cultural identity, challenge stereotypes, and reclaim their place in the broader British cultural landscape. They also examine the impact of colonialism, slavery, and migration on Caribbean culture and how these experiences have shaped the artistic expressions of the region.

Another prominent theme is the exploration of the intersectionality of Caribbean-British art with other cultural and artistic movements. Contributors discuss how Caribbean artists have collaborated with artists from other parts of the world, drawn inspiration from diverse cultural traditions, and incorporated elements of popular culture into their work. They also explore the challenges and opportunities that arise from these cross-cultural collaborations, such as the potential for cultural appropriation and the need for cultural sensitivity and respect.

The anthology also sheds light on the political and social issues that have impacted Caribbean-British art over the years. Contributors examine the role of art in activism and social change, highlighting the ways in which artists have used their work to raise awareness about issues such as racism, inequality, and environmental degradation. They also explore the challenges faced by Caribbean artists in accessing the art world and the barriers that they have to overcome to achieve recognition and success.

In addition to the essays and artwork, Liberation Begins in the Imagination includes a comprehensive bibliography that provides a wealth of information and resources for further exploration of Caribbean-British art. This bibliography includes a list of key publications, exhibitions, and institutions that specialize in Caribbean-British art, as well as a selection of critical essays and reviews that provide insights into the field.

Overall, Liberation Begins in the Imagination is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the field of art history and cultural studies. By bringing together a diverse range of voices and perspectives, this anthology offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the Caribbean's contribution to Britain and British art today. It serves as a valuable resource for artists, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex history of this region.

Contributors to this extraordinary anthology include a diverse range of renowned artists, scholars, and intellectuals. Rasheed Araeen, Coco Fusco, Paul Gilroy, Stuart Hall, Roshini Kempadoo, George Lamming, Errol Lloyd, John Lyons, Amna Malik, Courtney J. Martin, Michael McMillan, Kobena Mercer, Richard J. Powell, Elizabeth Robles, Lou Smith, Helen Sumpter, Claire Tancons, Gilane Tawadros, Jessica Taylor, and Yvonne Weekes have all contributed their unique perspectives and insights to this project.

The anthology opens with an introductory essay by renowned art historian and critic Simon Schama, who provides a sweeping historical overview of the Caribbean's role in shaping British art. Schama highlights the significant contributions of Caribbean artists, writers, and intellectuals to the development of modern British art, from the early 20th-century avant-garde movements to the contemporary art scene. He also explores the complex and often fraught relationship between Britain and the Caribbean, examining the historical, cultural, and political factors that have influenced this relationship over the years.

Following the introductory essay, the anthology is divided into several thematic sections, each exploring different aspects of Caribbean-British art. These sections include "The Visual Arts," "Literature and Performance," "Music and Dance," and "Cultural Exchange." Within each section, contributors offer a rich tapestry of essays, interviews, and artwork that showcase the diverse and dynamic artistic expressions of the Caribbean community in Britain.

One of the key themes that emerge throughout the anthology is the celebration of Caribbean identity and heritage. Contributors explore the ways in which Caribbean artists have used their art to express their cultural identity, challenge stereotypes, and reclaim their place in the broader British cultural landscape. They also examine the impact of colonialism, slavery, and migration on Caribbean culture and how these experiences have shaped the artistic expressions of the region.

Another prominent theme is the exploration of the intersectionality of Caribbean-British art with other cultural and artistic movements. Contributors discuss how Caribbean artists have collaborated with artists from other parts of the world, drawn inspiration from diverse cultural traditions, and incorporated elements of popular culture into their work. They also explore the challenges and opportunities that arise from these cross-cultural collaborations, such as the potential for cultural appropriation and the need for cultural sensitivity and respect.

The anthology also sheds light on the political and social issues that have impacted Caribbean-British art over the years. Contributors examine the role of art in activism and social change, highlighting the ways in which artists have used their work to raise awareness about issues such as racism, inequality, and environmental degradation. They also explore the challenges faced by Caribbean artists in accessing the art world and the barriers that they have to overcome to achieve recognition and success.

In addition to the essays and artwork, Liberation Begins in the Imagination includes a comprehensive bibliography that provides a wealth of information and resources for further exploration of Caribbean-British art. This bibliography includes a list of key publications, exhibitions, and institutions that specialize in Caribbean-British art, as well as a selection of critical essays and reviews that provide insights into the field.

Overall, Liberation Begins in the Imagination is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the field of art history and cultural studies. By bringing together a diverse range of voices and perspectives, this anthology offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the Caribbean's contribution to Britain and British art today. It serves as a valuable resource for artists, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex history of this region.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849767668