Simon Frederick exhibition coming to Leica Gallery London

Leica Gallery London is hosting an exhibition by photographer, filmmaker and broadcaster Simon Frederick from 26th July to 22nd September 2024

Titled Dualities in Monochrome, this exhibition marks Frederick’s return to the art scene after a 12-year hiatus.

Simon Frederick has a history of both national and international exhibitions. His previous solo exhibition, Black is the New Black, held at the National Portrait Gallery in 2018, became the largest group of African-Caribbean sitters acquired by the National Portrait Gallery for its permanent collection.

In addition to his work in photography, Frederick has created, produced, and directed several award-winning television series such as They’ve Gotta Have Us and The Outsiders? He also served as the lead judge with Isabella Rossellini in Sky’s Master of Photography and made his stage directorial debut with Unseen Unheard, The Untold Breast Cancer Stories of Black Women.

Dualities in Monochrome uses black-and-white contrasts to highlight the tension between internal and external experiences and features actor Welket Bungué, who has worked in over 40 films and series across German, Portuguese and Brazilian productions.

Leica says this approach aims to focus on “the raw power and majestic movement of each pose created by the subject’s monumental physique” while also revealing “moments of vulnerability.” Such duality is said to represent the interplay of strength and fragility in human nature.

While the series explores the experiences of black men, it also addresses the broader human need for empathy, understanding and respect. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the nuances of power, vulnerability and shared human experiences.

The 11 works featured in the series are being shown and made available for sale for the first time.

The exhibition runs from 26th July to 22nd September 2024 at Leica Gallery London, visit the website for more information.