Revival, London 1989-1993

Tender photographs of the Afro-Carribbean and Irish communities in west London in the early 90s. Brent has a rich history of multiculturalism. Roy Mehta’s exquisite black and white photographs capture the daily rituals of its various communities, most notably the Afro-Carribean and Irish, engaged in seemingly simple activities at home, in the street and at church. Shot from 1989-1993, the images move from profound moments of faith to quiet family moments and to the noisy streets outside, and remind us that every moment is an opportunity for connection and reflection.

‘I hold these photographs dear because I locate them within a time of cultural and political solidarity with the subjects being framed.’ Dr Mark Sealy MBE, director Autograph the Association of Black Photographers

‘Mehta doesn’t shy away from the sadness and difficulties of this foundational story, but his multiracial faces – taken in Brent, northwest London – remain coloured with British dreams, and they exude a vitality which suggests that, although things are never going to be easy, all will eventually be well.’ – Caryl Phillips from the introduction

The work is generously supported by Brent 2020 London Borough of Culture, the Arts Council National Lottery Project Grant and Spectrum Photographic.
Copies of the books will be donated to the local community through libraries, schools and colleges as part of the Brent 2020 London Borough of Culture initiative and the Arts Council National Lottery fund.
A digital archive of the photographs will be gifted to Brent Museums and Archives.
Well known curator and artist Laura Noble has curated the physical exhibition which will open in NW London in March 2022.