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Simon Frederick: Dualities in Monochrome

Leica Gallery London is thrilled to announce the exhibition, Dualities in Monochrome, a photographic series by the celebrated artist, photographer, filmmaker and broadcaster Simon Frederick marking his return to the contemporary art scene after a 12-year hiatus.
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A strong portrait, captured by Simon Frederick, 1

Leica Gallery London is thrilled to announce the exhibition, Dualities in Monochrome, a photographic series by the celebrated artist, photographer, filmmaker and broadcaster Simon Frederick marking his return to the contemporary art scene after a 12-year hiatus.

Through eliminating all colour, Frederick uses graphic juxtaposition of black and white to intensify the tension between internal and external realms and steadfastly focus our attention on the raw power and majestic movement of each pose created by this monumental physique. Presented as someone undeniably strong, the subject also reveals moments of vulnerability, symbolizing the physical and mental contrast or nuance which we have as humans - the duality of fragility alongside perceived power or strength.

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A strong portrait, captured by Simon Frederick, 2

The works in Dualities in Monochrome, apart from being visually draw-dropping transcend their ‘canvas’ and delve deep into the experiences and the contradictions that shape our collective lives. While the exhibition gives voice to the specific experiences of Black men, it is also about the universal and profound human need for understanding, compassion and regard.

The series focuses on the striking form of actor Welket Bungué who has already had a stellar career in the field of acting working for German, Portuguese and Brazilian productions – and has more than 40 films and series accredited to his name including David Cronenberg’s latest film Crimes of the Future.

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A strong portrait, captured by Simon Frederick, 3

Simon Frederick has exhibited his photographs internationally and nationally including his solo show Black is the New Black (Portraits from his acclaimed documentary of the same name) at the National Portrait Gallery in London between September 2018 & January 2019. These works made history as the largest group of African-Caribbean sitters to be acquired by the National Portrait Gallery for their permanent collection.

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A strong portrait, captured by Simon Frederick, 4

Alongside his photographic career Frederick has created, produced and directed multiple award-winning television series such as They've Gotta Have Us and The Outsiders? He was also the lead judge with Isabella Rossellini in Sky’s Master of Photography and last year he made his stage directorial debut directing with the play Unseen Unheard, The Untold Breast Cancer Stories of Black Women.

Simon Frederick: Dualities in Monochrome
26/07/2024 - 22/09/2024
London