Last night I went to Stanley Gibbons, the home of the world’s leading stamp emporium to attend Jon Daniel's' exhibition of Post Colonial: Stamps from the African Diaspora, in celebration of Black History Month. The collection, originally inspired by the lyrics of Public enemy's 'Fight the Power', is a visual acknowledgement of the contributions, influences and impact many have made across the world, whilst citing their birth place.
From afar the backdrop looks like a colourful mosaic, up close it is a miniature but detailed piece of art that is powerful as stand alone pieces and as a collective. The longer I looked at it, the more I found. I definitely have a new sense of appreciated for stamps.
The exhibition celebrates Mary Seacole, Aretha Franklin, Sojourner truth and many many more both widely known and unknown. It is the latter which makes this exhibition special, as thought, research and time has been given to extend beyond current knowledge. The exhibition also highlights the world’s first stamps depicting black historical figures, stamps best by design, the rare and valuable stamps and autographed pictures. Simon Woolley from Operation Black Vote captures the emotive essence of the exhibition when he said "Black culture and a sense of justice beautifully scream through."
Jon Daniel’s passion is evident through the collection and I spoke to him to capture his voice.
What was your drive/motivation in deciding to put this exhibition on?
To promote the rich historical legacy of African Diaspora people. To produce an event of genuine quality that resonates with all audiences. To ensure the ingenuity and innovation of works by people of African Diaspora heritage is rightfully recognised by the art, design and visual communications establishment.
Have you always been interested in stamps?
Yes. As someone who has always been interested in art, design and all manner of visual communication, you cannot help but be captivated by the intrinsic beauty and craftsmanship of a well designed stamp.
How long did it take to put this together?
From the idea in my head to the realisation of the final exhibition, its been about 8 weeks, which is incredibly fast. In that time we have curated and sourced all the stamps, created all the exhibition graphics and supporting materials, built the online environment, created a graphic animated promo with a bespoke original music soundtrack, and planned a launch event.
It is a testament to the quality of the team and how being able to move quickly and unimpeded by lengthy decision-making processes, can achieve wonders.
What was the process?
My first call was actually to Creative Review magazine as I figured it was a good idea to see if I could get them to publish a selection of stamps in their exclusive subscriber publication, Monograph.
After that I decided to see how I could get an exhibition up and running. Once i had the idea of contacting Stanley
Incredibly, the two separate entities came together seamlessly to make for a strong platform which to build. I then sounded out the key people I wanted to work with me on the project and once I got the go-ahead we sprung into action.
How important is the acknowledgement and knowledge of our history in the present day?
Absolutely vital. For me, knowing our true history underpins everything. How we view each other and our place in this world. In truth there is no such thing as Black History. Its all our history.
What do you hope people take away from the exhibition?
A greater sense of the historical contribution made by people from the African Diaspora to our society. The sheer diversity of countries and cultures who have celebrated them and an enthusiasm to dig deeper and unearth more historical treasures that enrich our global culture and enlighten our minds.
The exhibition runs from the 1st-29th October so there is plenty of time to pop in.
399 Strand
WC2R 0LX
OpeningTimes
9.00am - 5.30pm (Monday to Friday)
9.30am - 5.30pm (Saturday)
Details: http://www.stanleygibbons.com/stanleygibbons/view/content/postcolonial
Related Posts:
1. Dot to Dot: Part 1
2.Dot to Dot: Part 2
3.Road Blocked
© Lisa Bent 2011
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