The Screening and Panel Discussion Of 'Threads Of Memory’
The landscape of Black British fashion is ever-changing. From the unveiling of collections influenced by the motherland at fashion week, tracksuits which were initially popularised in the UK through football culture and Grime to now becoming a dominant global trend, the influences of African and Caribbean migration on Black British fashion is undeniable. Exploring the impact and journey of this phenomenon, director Juliana Kasumu created Threads Of Memory. It highlights how migration, identity and resilience alongside the ever-expanding style and exchange of culture have shaped (and continues to shape) this fashion moment.
Featuring historical footage from the BFI National Archive which combines old and new stories across the African and Caribbean diaspora, Threads of Memory was unveiled at Central Saint Martins where we teamed up with the BFI’s Our Screen Heritage programme to host an exclusive screening and panel discussion for students. Moderated by Fehintoluwa Coker, the panel featured three fashion professionals - TrueVie founder Robbie, fashion commentator Chani Ra, fashion content creator Obianuju Ore - alongside filmmaker Juliana Kasumu..
The event opened with an introduction from Central Saint Martins’ Programme Director, Philip, before Fehintoluwa took the stage to unveil the film. Directing the audience to the wide screen titled Threads Of Memory, the students watched attentively as the screening unfolded, showing clips from Babymother, Grove Carnival and interviews with Priya Alhuwalia to name a few. As expected, the film was met with applause when it came to an end. The screening continued as the panelists took the stage and spoke on their cultural differences, and similarities. During the 45 mins conversation, the collective discussed the importance of archival footage, preservation of traditions for future generations, history of Black British fashion, how their household influences their style and more.
Our aim was to connect the creatives, weaving a story that not only reflects their experiences but yours and your parents too. By the end of the event, the film had done more than tell a story — it reminded the audience of fashion’s ability to capture moments in our personal lives, communities and translate them into a powerful cultural movement that stands to influence generations to come. Threads Of Memory serves as a modern archive for Black British fashion.
This event was supported by the BFI Screen Heritage Fund, awarding National Lottery funding.
