History And Art Combine To Bring Hidden Stories Of Black Communities To Life

Led by Dr Amanda Herbert and Dr Liam Liburd, the Black British Histories North East project builds on their ‘Open Water’ research which explored the lost histories of Black aquatics.

The work challenges long-standing and damaging stereotypes that Black people cannot swim by recovering evidence from rare historical texts that demonstrates their expertise in swimming, diving, boating and fishing.

These reclaimed stories were then turned into interactive art puzzles by award-winning American artist Ebony Iman Dallas.

The art puzzles depict scenes representing the true history of Black aquatics.

On the back of each puzzle, laser-cut into the wood, are excerpts from the rare books and manuscripts used by Dr Herbert and Dr Liburd in their research.

In this way, the puzzles combine visual storytelling, historical material, and hands-on engagement in a single work of art.

Lasting legacy

Our researchers partnered with Heworth Grange School in Gateshead whose history teacher, Terry Graham, formed Project North Star to examine Black history in North East England.

The Heworth pupils studied Ebony’s artistic techniques to produce their own portraits of unsung Black historical figures linked to their curriculum subjects. Collected Books in Durham contributed works on Black history, art, literature, and culture for students to consult.

This culminated in an exhibition at the school which Ebony attended in-person, travelling more than 4,000 miles to North East England from her home in Oklahoma, USA.

The students’ artworks will continue to be displayed in classrooms across the school, ensuring the project has a lasting presence.

‘Vibrant and relevant’

Dr Herbert said it had been ‘inspiring’ to work with Ebony and the Heworth staff and pupils to bring the untold history of Black communities to life.

She added: “This project demonstrates the real power of arts and humanities research to challenge stereotypes, broaden understanding and inspire future generations.

“By bringing these true stories to life through art, we’re helping young people see history not as something distant and stuffy, but as something vibrant and relevant to their lives today.”

Dr Herbert and her team are now exploring the development of a Black British History app to broaden the project’s reach even further.

Main image shows pupils at Heworth Grange School in Gateshead with their artwork. Image credit: Evie Reilly. Dr Amanda Herbert and artist Ebony Iman Dallas are pictured above.