In Conversation: Sophia-Layla Afsar and Alex Billingham | The New Art Gallery Walsall
Jan 27, 2024 (UTC+0)ENDED
Walsall
Experience the captivating conversation between artists Sophia-Layla Afsar and Alex Billingham as they engage in a thought-provoking dialogue alongside co-curator Aziz Sohail. This exclusive event, titled "In Conversation: Sophia-Layla Afsar and Alex Billingham," invites you to join these talented artists on a journey of self-expression and artistic exploration.
Co-curated with Aziz Sohail, the event showcases a collection of new works by Sophia-Layla Afsar, based in Karachi, Pakistan, and Alex Billingham, based in the West Midlands, UK. These two exceptional artists embarked on parallel three-month residences at the prestigious Indus Valley School of Art & Architecture in Karachi and The New Art Gallery Walsall respectively, as part of the two-year project Belonging/Disbelonging.
Belonging/Disbelonging seeks to forge connections between trans and queer artists across the UK and Pakistan, fostering meaningful dialogue and debate within both contexts. With a strong emphasis on community, inclusivity, care, and kindness, this project aims to create a space where diverse perspectives can thrive.
Following the success of an earlier exhibition in February 2023 at IVS Gallery, this brand-new exhibition unveils commissioned films by each artist. Delve into the immersive environment carefully crafted by Afsar and Billingham, which reflects on the trans* experience, exploring themes of joy, grief, survival, and thriving.
Please note that your privacy and safety are of the utmost importance. Rest assured, visitors will not be filmed at any point during the event, with only the initial conversation between the artists and curator, preceding the Q&A session, being recorded.
These remarkable Belonging/Disbelonging residences were made possible through the generous support of the British Council International Collaboration Grants. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to the Charles Wallace Trust for their support in facilitating Layla's visit to Walsall.
Join us at The New Art Gallery Walsall, located at Gallery Square, Walsall, WS2 8LG, on January 27, 2024, for this remarkable event. Admission is free, offering you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the transformative power of art.