The Braithwaite Sound Portrait Workshop

If a photograph could sing, what would it sound like? In this creative workshop, participants will respond to the historic family portrait of James Braithwaite, his wife Emma and their daughter by imagining their hidden voices and feelings at the time. Together we will explore themes of family, migration, and pride echoing the 2025 Black History Month theme “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.”

Guided by singer-songwriter Kemi Sulola, participants will layer these imagined voices with their own family stories to create an original group song. There will be musical accompaniment by a professional musician and the session will culminate in an audio recording, a collective “sound portrait” that bridges past and present. No musical experience is needed , just bring your openness, your story and your imagination.

This event forms part of Newham's Black History Month programme. Under the theme Standing Firm in Power and Pride, the programme highlights heritage, resilience, creativity, and the strength of community.

Highlights include:

Windrush Voices. Saturday 11 October, 5-7pm, Forest Gate Library: Hear powerful voices from the Windrush generation and their lasting legacy.

Black Pound Market, Saturday 18 October, 12-5pm, The Market Place: Shop, explore and enjoy live DJ sets.

The Braithwaite Sound Portrait, Thursday 23 and Saturday 25 October, 5-7.30pm, Canning Town Library: Create an original song inspired by a historic family portrait.

Power and Pride: Youth Voices, Friday 31 October, 6-8.30pm, Old Town Hall Stratford: Experience theatre, poetry and art by young people in Newham.