DEED News Special

This Black History Month
DEED presents
The Past is Present

This exhibition by Swanage-based artist Sharon James explores how the past continues to shape the present through Black British history, heritage and identity.

7–31 October 2026 | Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG

Deeply personal yet widely resonant, the exhibition brings together Sharon’s evolving Blackground works with nine new pieces, a film essay and a book featuring 50 images alongside the stories that inspired them.

The exhibition also brings together Sharon’s work with textiles from DEED’s much-loved vintage Sankofa exhibition of artisanal crafts from Ghana, alongside a personal collection of contemporary African wax-printed cloth. Together, these works explore the connections between the colours and symbols of West African fabrics and Sharon’s own visual storytelling.

“Some people say that’s all in the past, but it’s constantly coming up in the present. It’s our heritage.”

School and community group visits

Sharon and DEED warmly welcome visits from local schools and community groups. Talks are also available for visiting groups by arrangement.

To find out more or arrange a group visit, please contact Louise Boston-Mammah at DEED at education@deed.org.uk

Join us for the launch

10 October 2026 12-4 pm | Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG

Meet the artist, browse the exhibition and enjoy refreshments at this free launch event, celebrating Black History Month and exploring Sharon James’ The Past Is Present.

The launch is supported by Umoja Arts Network, Boscombe Radicle Arts Collective (BRAC) and Lighthouse Poole.

The exhibition is free to visit throughout October.

If you are looking for ideas or resources to celebrate Black History Month, please contact Louise at DEED.

Have a great Black History Month