Project a Black Planet : The Art and Culture of Pan-Africa

Complex exhibition at the Barbican looking at the concept of Pan-Africanism in the arts.

The blurb defined Pan-Africa as "the many movements seeking to unite communities of African descent in their pursuit of freedom and the creation of an autonomous sense of belonging in the modern world". The show had a lot of work to do and felt quite dense at times.

The top floor looked at the development of the movement’s philosophy since 1900 and how this was reflected in art and literature. At times it felt like hard work. The literature sections weren't well explained and somewhat overshadowed by the art.

The lower floor featured larger, dramatic works which reflected the ideas which had been presented. I loved this set of six murals by Hale Aspacio Woodruff commissioned by the Clark Atlanta University and called "Art of the Negro" from 1952 but sadly from reading my notes since I've realised they were photographic reproductions which was a shame. I have used the title given to the work in the show.

I also liked these dramatic ornate coffins "Invisible Presence : Bling Memories" by Ebony G Patterson from 2014 which were made to be carried in a procession in Jamaica.

From the earlier works I liked Ronald Moody's wood sculpture "Seated Figure" from 1960 and Milwa Mnyaluza Pemba "The Agitator" also from 1960.

Closed 6 September 2026

Reviews

Guardian 

Telegraph