For decades, London has been a destination for Nigerians moving abroad. South of the River Thames you’ll find Peckham, a multicultural district sometimes referred to as ‘Little Lagos,’ where the prominent British Nigerian actor John Boyega grew up.
Exploring Busy Streets
If you exit London’s Peckham Rye railway station and head onto the busy Rye Lane (pictured), you’ll be met with a flurry of activity on this bustling high street.
A Connection to Home
When British Nigerian filmmaker Adeyemi Michael was growing up, he used to skate up Peckham Rye to get groceries for his mother. ‘There’s a spirit here,’ he said.
Highlighting Cultural Narratives
Michael’s mother is the star of his short film ‘Entitled,’ (2018) and the face of a new exhibition at South London Gallery called ‘Lagos, Peckham, Repeat: Pilgrimage to the Lakes’ that explores the district’s relationship with Nigerian diaspora.
Community and Empowerment
‘It’s a statement,’ Michael said. At the exhibition, he invites visitors to see into his family’s home decked out with comfy armchairs and snacks sprawled across a coffee table.
Showcasing Diverse Talents
Michael is one of 13 Nigerian and British Nigerian artists featured in the exhibition. The exhibition features sculpture, installation, photography and film.
Exploring Igbo Heritage
At South London Gallery, London artist Chiizii is featured. Her collages and drawings explore the history and food culture of Nigeria’s Igbo ethnic group.
Reflections Through Art
Turner Prize nominee Yinka Shonibare appears in his work ‘Diary of a Victorian Dandy’ (1998) which partly reflects on his own life as a Black man living with a physical disability.
