Vanley Burke & Pat Noxolo in conversation

Join us for a relaxed daytime conversation with Vanley Burke and Professor Pat Noxolo.

Burke is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Black British photography. For decades, his work has documented everyday life, political struggle and community experience in Birmingham and beyond. Professor Pat Noxolo, Chair in Postcolonial Geographies at the University of Birmingham, brings a complementary perspective, exploring how Vanley’s work connects to wider cultural, historical and academic conversations about race, place and representation.

The discussion offers insight into Burke’s life and practice, including the thinking, relationships and experiences that have shaped his work. The conversation places Burke’s work into conversation with broader cultural and intellectual contexts, with a focus on the role of artistic practice as it crosses over with health narratives.

The discussion forms part of Healing Arts Birmingham (HABrum), a week-long festival co-led by Birmingham City Council and the Jameel Arts & Health Lab. The festival contributes to the Jameel Arts & Health Lab’s global Healing Arts campaign, delivered in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).

About the Speakers

Vanley Burke (b. 1951, Jamaica) has been documenting Black British life in Birmingham since the 1960s. From community celebrations to anti-racist movements, his intimate, empathetic photography challenges stereotypes and archives richly textured stories. An Honorary Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society and recipient of the Paul Hamlyn Award, his exhibitions range from community centres to the V&A, Soho House, Ikon Gallery and beyond.

Professor Pat Noxolo is Professor in Human Geography and Chair in Postcolonial Geographies at the University of Birmingham. With an MA in Development Studies and a PhD in Human Geography, her research spans Caribbean/global culture, in/security, and the politics of place. She has led major projects funded by AHRC and Leverhulme, and speaks widely on race, culture and community in the UK and beyond.