Exhibition: Portraits by Matthew Small for Black History Month

Portrait by Matthew Small

As part of Black History Month, the Camden Black British History Community Hub is hosting an exhibition: 'Camden Blossoms' by local artist Matthew Small.

Primarily a portrait painter, Matthew often works using discarded urban debris like car bonnets or scrap metal, to produce compelling portraits. Mainly of young, black children he manages to capture their essence. Most of his work shows, like the Mona Lisa, the face of a person just about to speak. Matthew compares the debris with the young people. He says they must never be allowed to become trash, but must blossom and grow in Camden's dynamic and diverse culture. Mathew says this needs a spirit rooted in acceptance, creativity, and potential. As they grow together, embracing each other's differences, they form a colourful, vibrant community filled with promise and possibility.

Attending the launch on Thursday evening, Camden's head of Culture, Zerritha Brown, said: "We need to be proud of Camden's Black History." She added that Matthew had been chosen to produce a mural for Talacre Gardens early in 2026.

The exhibition will run until 29th November, Tuesdays and Thursdays 11-5; and Saturdays 1-6 at Camden Black British History Community Hub, 18 Malden Rd, London NW5 3HN.

LINKS

Matthew Small: www.matthew-small.com/

Camden Black British History: https://camdenbbh.org/