Facing the Past – Black Lancastrians

A Portrait Exhibition by Lela Harris

30 March – 5 November 2023

Thomas Anson, Frances Elizabeth Johnson, John Chance, Isaac Rawlinson, ‘Ebo Boy’ and Molly were Black people living in the Lancaster area in the 1700s. We know of them through glimpses in the archives – church records, runaway slave adverts and family stories. Now artist Lela Harris has re-imagined these historic individuals through a series of stunning new portraits at Judges’ Lodgings, on display next to those who benefitted from slavery. Don’t miss portraits by local young people showing Afamefuna, the African teenager with a Lancastrian accent who escaped slavery from nearby Heysham. Plus original drawings and sketches by Harris on display.

In partnership with Lancaster Black History Group, the Institute for Black Atlantic Research at the University of Central Lancashire, Lancaster University, Bowerham Primary School, the Cathedral Catholic Primary School and Dallas Road Primary School. Supported by Art Fund, Association of Independent Museums and National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery Players.