Titian to Chris Ofili - The Black Presence in Western European Art

This talk given by Arts and Culture Historian Michael Ohajuru explores how Black people have been shown in Western European art, from Titian to Chris Ofili, from being cast as servants, symbols or curiosities to becoming central, creative figures in their own right.It looks at how artists have represented Black lives across the centuries, and how todays audiences are rethinking what these images mean. Along the way, it asks important questions about whose stories get told in art, and how those stories shape the way we see each other overlooked in traditional narratives, and invites fresh perspectives on Black presence in Britains history.Talk given by Michael Ohajuru.A signed copy of Michael's recent book Who Is John Blanke? (RRP 35) is also available (free of charge) as a prize for a free raffle at the talk.Free entry, booking essential.Event organised by Stockport Art Guild.Refreshments will be available.You can reserve up to 2 tickets per purchase.Date: Sunday 10th May 2026.Time: Arrive 12.45pm for a 1.00pm start.Event finishes approximately at 3.00pm with Q&A.Location: Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery, Wellington Road South, Stockport, SK3 8AB.Wheelchair access available.Lift.stockportartguild.com
contact@stockportartguild.comFeatured Image: Lockdown 2020 by Ebun Culwin