Arts Thread

Manifested from a body of research widely consisting of family photo albums and vintage images of Jamaican reggae artists, 'All Bein' Well' explores my fascination with the many layers of heritage, culture and memory. To celebrate my Jamaican heritage and Black-British identity, I use the recurring themes of nostalgia, fluidity and belonging to question society's view of black men and the lack of space that this view leaves for vulnerability and openness. Each look portrays cultural references spanning from Portland, Jamaica, where my nana was born to Manchester where she later settled and started her family, to showcase the diversity and originality of Caribbean self-expression. I strive to constantly find beauty in the ordinary, less popularised elements of my culture, celebrating the journeys of those who participate within it. The Caribbean living room, a cultural staple within black British life post-Windrush was a significant influence. I found that by contrasting the seemingly ordinary aspects of Black-British life with the more striking style of Jamaican dancehall artists, I could create a space to portray Jamaican male flamboyancy in a fresh, liberating way that balances feminine and masculine elements and combines maximalism with comfort. For instance numerous motifs, colours and textures were taken from my nana's home over the years and documented in photographs, allowing me to include lace and botanical motifs through print and fabrication. Her style was also influential to the project, feminine visuals throughout were a tribute to her individuality, resilience and inspiring journey. From these themes and influences, I have designed and constructed 7 looks, each completed by a pair of Clarks Originals (a fashion staple in Jamaica). I hope that this collection will push the boundaries of Caribbean masculinity and portray, through clothing, the vibrancy and joy within Jamaican culture. Credits: Shoot 1 'Portland' (Location): Photography - Emily White Shoot 2 'Elva's House' (Studio): Photography - William Sousa Creative Direction, Design & Styling - Rebecca Wong Models - David Alajiki, Kaine Alleyne, Jordan Lambert, Giles Williams, Lewis Williams Shoot Assistants: Olivia Grace Williams, Lola Fried-Jones