John Akomfrah selected as UK representative for 2024 Venice Biennale

At the 2024 Venice Biennale, Great Britain will be represented by John Akomfrah, who first showcased his work there in 2015 with Vertigo Sea, a piece that tackled whaling and environmental concerns. Akomfrah, originally from Accra, returned in 2019 with Four Nocturnes, which delved into themes of migration and identity, particularly through the lens of Africa's elephant populations. His earlier works, such as Handsworth Songs (1986) and The Last Angel of History (1996), examined immigration and race relations, drawing inspiration from theorists like Homi Bhabha and Stuart Hall. Recognized in the 1980s as a member of the Black Audio Film Collective, Akomfrah was chosen by the British Council jury, led by Skinder Hundal, through an open submission process, highlighting his collaborators and the institution's legacy.