Subjects of State, Labours of Love

Subjects of State, Labours of Love is a two-chapter film by acclaimed artist Rhea Storr. Shot on 16mm film, the work is presented as an immersive multi-channel video installation and exhibition that captures the shared joys, celebrations, struggles, oppressions and complexities experienced by Caribbean heritage communities.

The first chapter captures a present-day discussion among key people involved in Black/Caribbean community organising during the 1980s through to the present day in Wolverhampton. This was a turbulent time marked by race riots in major British cities, the brutal policing of Black communities and the rise of far-right groups like the National Front. Against this backdrop, Black/Caribbean organisers provided vital community spaces at a time when Black people faced widespread discrimination and inequality in education, housing, and the job market. In the conversation, the members share their experiences of organising, the challenges they encountered (particularly related to British politician Enoch Powell’s lasting racist rhetoric), and the joys of solidarity and community.

The second chapter of the film is an observational portrait of present-day Sheffield and District African Caribbean Community Association, SADACCA. The work highlights how SADACCA, which used to be a manufacturing site, now serves as a valuable resource for the community and a central part of the social fabric of the city. This chapter also looks at the importance of archiving from the perspective of what future generations of Black people living in the UK might need, and how their changing position in UK society influences the viability of the space.

• Organisation