An Exploration of Britishness with Kelly Sian
Artist Kelly Sian will work with a group of 6 – 12 participants over three sessions to explore the concept of Britishness and the broader national conversations of belonging and inclusivity in contemporary Britain, as part of the development of a wider project and exhibition.
To take part you must be aged 16+. Book your free space now. By booking onto the first workshop, the expectation is that you are able to commit to all of most of the following dates. No photography experience required, just curiosity or passion about identity and heritage through imagery.
Thu 26 Feb, 6 – 8:30pm. Session 1: Roots and Reflection
Through an open call, 6–12 local participants will share photographs or objects representing their heritage and belonging. The session focuses on storytelling, connection, and planning self-portraits for the next workshop—no photography experience required, just curiosity about identity and heritage through imagery.
Thu 12 Mar, 6 – 8:30pm. Session 2: Reimagining Identity
In a temporary studio, participants create self-portraits inspired by prior discussions. Experimentation is encouraged—recreations, collage, or abstraction—to express personal views of Britishness. Using analogue photography, participants can also document with their own devices. The session promotes creative freedom and accessibility in photographic practice.
Thu 28 Mar, 6 – 8:30pm. Session 3: Reflection and Dialogue
After developing the film, participants gather to view and discuss their portraits. This reflective celebration invites conversation around identity, representation, and process. Everyone receives digital and printed copies of their work as a personal keepsake and recognition of their creative contribution.
These workshops are part of Barnsley’s FOTO 2026 photography festival, supported by Photoworks, Barnsley Council and Barnsley Civic.
