Vibrantform's Debut Exhibition at Hypha Studios Showcases 17 Black Male Artists
Vibrantform, a collective based in the UK, is set to unveil its inaugural group exhibition titled 'Exiting the Forest, Into a Sea of Open Arms,' curated by Thomas James. This event will take place at Hypha Studios in London from July 17 to August 29, 2026. The exhibition showcases the work of 17 Black male artists, including Adjani Okpu-Egbe and Aziah Lusala, who delve into themes of identity, memory, intimacy, and shared artistic experiences. James's curatorial vision highlights the importance of collaboration and support among artists. His accompanying essay, 'Beyond the Gates of a Kingdom (From Plantationocene to Paradise),' reflects on the journeys of third-generation post-war Black creatives in Britain. A private viewing is scheduled for July 16 from 6–9pm at the No. 1 Poultry building.
Key facts
- Vibrantform presents its debut exhibition 'Exiting the Forest, Into a Sea of Open Arms' at Hypha Studios, London, from July 17 to August 29, 2026.
- The exhibition is curated by Thomas James and features 17 Black male artists.
- Artists include Adjani Okpu-Egbe, Aziah Lusala, Donald Senyah, David Kwaw Mensah, Djofray Makumbu, Emmanuel Awuni, Geoffrey Chambers, Joshua Donkor, Ken Nwadiogbu, Kwesi Awotwi, Neequaye Dreph Dsane, Renoir Saulter, Sani Sani, Suley WellingsLongmore, Tami Masunda, Tonye Ekine, and Xavier Laurent Leopold.
- The show spans painting, sculpture, photography, assemblage, sound, animation, and archival exploration.
- The exhibition explores identity, memory, intimacy, and collective artistic life, avoiding a singular focus on Blackness.
- James's catalogue essay is titled 'Beyond the Gates of a Kingdom (From Plantationocene to Paradise)'.
- The exhibition is located at Hypha Studios, Gallery 1, 1 Poultry, London EC2R 8EN, in the postmodern building designed by James Stirling.
- The private view is on Thursday 16 July, from 6–9pm.
Entities
Artists
- Adjani Okpu-Egbe
- Aziah Lusala
- Donald Senyah
- David Kwaw Mensah
- Djofray Makumbu
- Emmanuel Awuni
- Geoffrey Chambers
- Joshua Donkor
- Ken Nwadiogbu
- Kwesi Awotwi
- Neequaye Dreph Dsane
- Renoir Saulter
- Sani Sani
- Suley WellingsLongmore
- Tami Masunda
- Tonye Ekine
- Xavier Laurent Leopold
- Thomas James
- James Stirling
Institutions
- Vibrantform
- Hypha Studios
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom