October 13th: Today's Feature - Marlene Smith

October

Marlene Smith

Marlene Smith, born in 1964 in Birmingham, is a significant figure in the British art scene, both as an Artist and a Curator. Her career is marked by a deep commitment to activism, research, and the arts, which began in the 1980s when she became one of the original members of the Blk Art Group. This collective was instrumental in addressing issues of representation and identity within the art world. Additionally, she played a crucial role in establishing the BLK Art Group Research Project, which aimed to further explore and document the contributions of Black artists in the UK.

Throughout her career, Smith has held several influential positions that highlight her dedication to promoting Black artists and their work. She served as the director of The Public in West Bromwich, a venue dedicated to contemporary art and community engagement. Furthermore, she took on the role of UK Research Manager for Black Artists and Modernism, a collaborative initiative between the University of the Arts London and Middlesex University. This project focused on the historical and contemporary contributions of Black artists, emphasizing the importance of their narratives in the broader context of modern art.

Currently, Marlene Smith is the Director of The Room Next to Mine, a platform that continues her mission of fostering dialogue and showcasing diverse artistic voices. She has also been an Associate of Lubaina Himid’s Making Histories Visible Project, which seeks to highlight the work of underrepresented artists. In addition, her role as an Associate Artist at Modern Art Oxford further underscores her influence in the art community, where she continues to inspire and mentor emerging artists while advocating for greater inclusivity in the arts.

Education

Smith studied Art & Design at Bradford College (1983–87)

Exhibitions

Selected solo exhibitions

1983–84: The Pan-Afrikan Connection

1985: The Thin Black Line, Institute of Contemporary Arts

1986: Unrecorded Truths, The Elbow Room

1986: Some of Us Are Brave, The Black-Art Gallery

Smith remains a vital force in supporting Black artists today, utilizing her research, writing, and artistic practice to highlight the underrepresentation of Black history and challenge systemic racism. Her work was featured in the group exhibition ‘The More Things Change…’ (2023) at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery, which showcased the founding members of the Blk Art Group, an organisation established in 1979 to explore the identity and future of Black art. Additionally, later that year, her contributions were included in the notable exhibition ‘Women in Revolt! : Art, Activism and the Women’s Movement in the UK 1970-1990’ at Tate Britain, where she also played a significant role as a consultant for the curatorial team.

Although Smith's impact on Black representation, history, and the art world is well acknowledged, many may not be aware of the personal narratives, experiences, and artistic processes that have shaped her work over the years. These elements of her journey are crucial in understanding the depth of her contributions and the evolution of her artistic voice. As she navigated her career, Smith's personal stories became intertwined with her art, reflecting not only her individual experiences but also the broader context of Black identity and representation in the arts.

During her ongoing research, Smith discovered a vibrant community of Black artists in the UK, particularly in Birmingham, where she encountered figures like Vanley Burke. This exploration led her to attend an auction organised by the London School of Economics, which proved to be a pivotal moment in her artistic journey. At this event, she connected with notable artists such as Frank Bowling, Ronald Moody, and Shakka Dedi, expanding her network and deepening her understanding of the artistic landscape. These interactions not only enriched her own practice but also highlighted the importance of collaboration and community among Black artists.

Smith's enduring legacy in promoting Black representation through her art, activism, research, and writing is unmistakable. Reflecting on her experiences as a Black artist in today's world, she emphasises the significance of her journey and the responsibility that comes with it. Her work serves as a testament to the power of art as a medium for social change and cultural expression, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for visibility and recognition within the art community. Through her dedication, Smith has not only carved out a space for herself but has also paved the way for others to follow.