James Barnor: Accra/London - A Retrospective

MASI Lugano presents the largest and most comprehensive retrospective to date devoted to the work of Ghanaian photographer James Barnor (Accra, 1929). Organized by the Serpentine Galleries in London, the exhibition documents Barnor’s long career, which encompasses numerous photographic genres, from studio portraiture to photojournalism, fashion editorials and street photography. Through his images, characterized by a direct and a spontaneous approach, his shots recount the social and political changes that marked the recent history of his country and that of London’s African community. Focusing in particular on the decades 1950–1980, the exhibition presents works from the artist’s personal archives, including many unpublished pictures. After MASI Lugano’s venue, the exhibition will be showcased at the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Presented in collaboration with Serpentine, London. James Barnor: Accra/London – A Retrospective is initiated and organised by the Serpentine Galleries, London. Curated by Lizzie Carey-Thomas, Chief Curator, Serpentine and Awa Konaté: Culture Art Society (CAS), Assistant Curator.