Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere

The first mid-career survey dedicated to the work of the New York-based, Bahamian artist Tavares Strachan (born in 1979), showcases the remarkably inventive ways in which he has celebrated unsung explorers and cultural trailblazers.

Inviting audiences to engage with overlooked characters whose stories represent and illuminate histories hidden by bias, in Strachan's bold artworks little-known pioneers and lost cultural connections are vividly commemorated.

Strachan’s stories of erasure and remembrance shine a light not only on histories of colonialism and racism, but also on the universal desire for a sense of belonging.

Featuring monumental new sculptural commissions alongside striking large-scale collages, neon works, bronze and ceramic sculptures, and mixed-media installations, this landmark exhibition at the Hayward Gallery takes visitors on a journey of discovery and recovery that is simultaneously playful and impactful.

Talks, discussions and guided tours

Tavares Strachan: Exhibition Panel Discussion
Thu 27 June at 7:30pm, tickets £8
Join curator Ekow Eshun, alongside other expert writers and curators, to explore key issues and themes of cultural visibility and art-as-protest in Strachan’s work.

Tavares Strachan in Conversation with Emma Dabiri
Sat 20 Jul at 7.30pm, tickets £12
Hear from artist Tavares Strachan and bestselling author, academic and broadcaster Emma Dabiri, as they discuss the Hayward Gallery’s current exhibition, and belonging.

Hidden Histories & Archives
Sat 3 Aug at 2pm, tickets from £8
Inspired by Tavares Strachan’s exhibition, a panel of writers, curators and artists, chaired by Lisa Anderson, discuss bringing hidden histories to light.

BSL Tours
Wed 17 July at 4.30pm and Thu 22 Aug at 4.30pm
Artist Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq leads you through Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere, discussing the artist's ideas and techniques. Find out more and book BSL tickets

Relaxed Hours
Tue 30 July, 10–3pm
Take in the exhibition in a relaxed environment with additional support at this Relaxed Hours event. Find out more and book Relaxed Hours tickets

Relaxed Tours
Thu 15 Aug at 2pm
Take a tour of the exhibition at a relaxed pace with additional support, led by Hayward Gallery tour guides, artist Georgia Akbar and the Arts & Wellbeing team.