Following an open call in December last year, the following artists have been selected for a series of dedicated Next in Line commissions that have been made possible with our support: Paula Harrowing; Katy Baird; Conrad Kira; Hester Chillingworth and Emma Frankland.
Barbering is a centuries old practice that has united communities, healed ill bodies and helped us to find a way to illustrate our own identities. From the black barbershops of 1920’s middle America, to the strong influence the Turkish barbers have in East London, the healing rituals in India, the barbershop has been a strong hold of various communities across the World.
Through newly commissioned work, and a curated programme, the festival will bring together established and emerging artists, barbers and activists who creatively use the history, politics and craft of barbering to explore themes of gender, community and social healing in their respective practices.
Directed and curated by live artist jamie lewis hadley and produced by Xavier de Sousa for Blank Billboard CIC. Developed in partnership with Artsadmin, Live Art Development Agency, Ravensbourne and Tower Hamlets Council, and funded by Arts Council England, Wellcome Trust, Jerwood Charitable Foundation and Heritage Lottery Fund.
