Takenya K. Holness documents the solidarity, celebration and tenderness among Black Britons

Takenya K. Holness’ photography gives us multiple perspectives on Black British culture. Graduating from Central Saint Martins after studying for her master’s in contemporary photography, she now refers to herself as a “patient study of colour,” seeing her practice as “a continuous odyssey of image-making and a means of creative release”.

Born in Jamaica and raised in London, the photographer documents events of congregation and celebration throughout a community. One of the most enticing things about her work is that ceremony, protest and individuality are captured with equal forte. Take the Windrush 75 events (events of summer 2023 held in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the MV Empire Windrush arriving in the UK and its generation of Caribbean migrants) of last summer, such as the Windrush Tea Party, where the photographer flexes her talent for documenting a range of expression. From wide shots capturing crowds in solidarity, to photographs showcasing the binding quality of cultural costume, and tender portraits of some of its visitors – her work is a site for memory and an account that can galvanise communities of the future.