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Tavares Strachan's 'In Plain Sight' at Marian Goodman Gallery London explores forgotten histories through multimedia.

exhibition · 2026-04-20

Bahamian artist Tavares Strachan showcases 'In Plain Sight' at Marian Goodman Gallery in London, an exhibition that runs until 24 October and explores the theme of historical invisibility through various artistic forms. Among the highlights is an 'Encyclopedia of Invisibility' featuring entries on lesser-known individuals such as Roland Moreno, the smart card inventor, and Richey Edwards of the Manic Street Preachers. Neon sculptures celebrate Cuban ballet icon Alicia Alonso, while mixed-media paintings honor Black heroes like footballer Viv Anderson, activist Paul Robeson, and Ethiopian leader Haile Selassie. On the first floor, twelve resin busts pay tribute to figures like nurse Mary Seacole and singer Nina Simone, each partially concealed by African masks. Performers in period attire, including one representing polar explorer Matthew Henson, guide guests through hidden rooms in a musical tour that enriches heroic narratives. This theatrical approach highlights the complexities of history, encouraging reflection on past judgments and the importance of learning from mistakes to forge a new collective identity.

Key facts

  • Exhibition 'In Plain Sight' by Tavares Strachan at Marian Goodman Gallery London
  • Runs until 24 October
  • Features 'Encyclopedia of Invisibility' with entries on forgotten figures
  • Includes neon sculpture of Cuban ballet dancer Alicia Alonso
  • Mixed-media paintings collage Black heroes like Viv Anderson and Paul Robeson
  • Twelve resin busts with African masks honor Mary Seacole and Nina Simone
  • Performers including Matthew Henson lead musical tour through secret rooms
  • Explores themes of historical invisibility and nuanced treatment of problematic pasts

Entities

Artists

  • Tavares Strachan
  • Roland Moreno
  • Richey Edwards
  • Alicia Alonso
  • Viv Anderson
  • Paul Robeson
  • Haile Selassie
  • Mary Seacole
  • Nina Simone
  • Matthew Henson

Institutions

  • Marian Goodman Gallery
  • Manic Street Preachers

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Bahamas
  • Cuba
  • Ethiopia
  • Wales

Sources