After the End of History: British Working Class Photography 1989 – 2024 is now on show at the
Herbert Art Gallery & Museum until June 16th in the first leg of a nationwide tour.
The free exhibition, curated by writer and broadcaster Johny Pitts with Hayward Gallery Touring,
brings together photography capturing modern life throughout the varied cultures which have
created the British working class identity in the 35 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Combining unique perspectives and recognisable counter-cultural imagery, the exhibition showcases
what became of the working class in the wake of Francis Fukuyama’s widely debated claim that the
triumph of Western Liberal Democracy over Communism in 1989 represented the ‘End of History’.
Johny said: “I hope the extraordinary work included offers not only a celebration of the craft and
creativity of working class practitioners, but also engages, surprises and inspires a working class
audience, and anyone interested in art against-the-odds.
Developing a show with Hayward Gallery Touring, which pieces together complex and counterintuitive expressions of working class life through the lens, has been a deeply enriching process.
Johny Pitts
Rather than the Neoliberal politics associated with the End of History resulting in a lack of cultural
expression and alternative views in the UK, the reaction against Thatcherism in the 1980s produced
a politically-engaged generation of working-class artists.
Among the images are Rene Mati?’s portrait of growing up mixed race in a white working class
community in Peterborough and Elaine Constantine’s documentation of the Northern Soul scene,
Kavi Pujara’s ode to Leicester’s Hindu community and J A Mortram’s documentation of marginalised
people while working as a caregiver.
Marguerite Nugent, Cultural Director, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, said:
We’re absolutely thrilled to be the first venue to host After the End of History. The exhibition represents the working class story since the Thatcher era told through the lens of working class artists, and offers audiences the opportunity to engage with themes about class and identity.
Brian Cass, Senior Curator, Hayward Gallery Touring, said:
Thanks to the insights and passion of curator Johny Pitts, After the End of History offers a portrayal of working class culture that doesn’t conform to expectation. It features a fascinating range of artists whose visually compelling images challenge the ideals of classic documentary photography while also saying something vital about class, community and creativity. We are delighted to be working with our exhibition partners on this project and we hope the exhibition offers audiences a thoughtful, relevant and affirming celebration of working class creativity.
Artists in the exhibition include: Richard Billingham, Sam Blackwood, Serena Brown, Antony Cairns,
Rob Clayton, Joanne Coates, Josh Cole, Artúr ?onka, Elaine Constantine, Natasha Edgington, Richard
Grassick, Anna Magnowska, Rene Mati?, J A Mortram, Kelly O’Brien, Eddie Otchere, Kavi Pujara,
Khadija Saye, Chris Shaw, Trevor Smith, Ewen Spencer, Hannah Starkey, Igoris Taran, Nathaniel
Telemaque, Barbara Wasiak and Tom Wood.
After The End Of History: British Working Class Photography 1989 – 2024,- 16th June 2024, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum
All Images ©Garry Jones
About
Hayward Gallery Touring organises contemporary art exhibitions that tour galleries, museums and
other publicly funded venues throughout Britain. In collaboration with artists, independent curators,
writers and partner institutions, Hayward Gallery Touring develops imaginative exhibitions that are
seen by up to half a million people in over 45 cities and towns each year.
The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, located in the heart of Coventry, is a vibrant cultural institution
that celebrates art, history, and culture. With a rich and diverse collection, the Herbert offers a
unique experience for visitors of all ages. The Herbert boasts an extensive collection that spans
centuries, featuring artworks, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the rich tapestry of human
history and creativity.
From contemporary art to ancient artifacts, our collections offer a journey through time and diverse cultures. Our gallery hosts a dynamic range of exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing local, national, and international talents. From thought-provoking contemporary art installations to interactive historical exhibits, there’s always something inspiring happening at the Herbert. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and engage our community through the exploration of art, heritage, and creativity. We aim to provide a dynamic space for cultural enrichment, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity.
