Watch Us Lead is an exhibition about missing stories from history. Through it, artist Christopher Samuel explores themes of stigma, belonging, and agency.

Through 9 newly recorded interviews for the city of Birmingham’s collection, Watch Us Lead highlights the experiences of disabled people of colour in Birmingham, particularly Black individuals: a largely underrepresented group within the community of the city. 

The exhibition combines these stories with stained glass and drawings by Christopher that reflect significant moments in the lives of the individuals featured.

It also includes objects Christopher has selected from Birmingham's own collection, and from the Birmingham-based Midland Mencap Archive, to build a fuller picture of the historic disabled experience in the city.

This exhibition aims to spark conversations around the ongoing issues of under-representation, autonomy, and the real disabled experience.

Commission made possible by 20/20, a 3-year funded programme led by the UAL Decolonising Arts Institute, with funding from Freelands Foundation, Arts Council England and UAL.

Related videos about the exhibition

Christopher Samuels speaks about Watch Us Lead

In this video Christopher Samuel Christopher speaks about the exhibition (filmed by Irina Mackie in the exhibition space).

Watch Us Lead BSL introduction

Watch Us Lead exhibition by Christopher Samuel, explained in BSL by David Ellington. This video can also be watched in the exhibition.