Ayr Town Hall will host a special screening of internationally acclaimed Barbadian-Scottish artist Alberta Whittle's new film.

Fresh from its highly praised presentation as part of Whittle’s World Premiere exhibition of new work at the 2022 Venice Biennale festival, Lagareh – The Last Born is coming to Ayrshire.

Commissioned by the Scotland+Venice partnership and Forma, LUX Scotland is touring the film to six venues across Scotland, with a programme of invited speakers at each location until March 2023, with support from Art Fund. 

The Ayr screening this Wednesday, March 1, at 6pm will be followed by a conversation between Chidera David Chukwujekwu and Raman Mundair.

The concept of ‘resistance’ will provide an interpretive frame for this discussion, to weave connections between the artist’s practice, anti-racist and pro-black advocacy, and Scotland’s historic connections to the Transatlantic slave trade.

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There will be a short interval between the film screening and the discussion. 

Chair of the Scotland + Venice partnership, Amanda Catto, said: “Lagareh is a deeply affective work that draws attention to the racial injustices, violence and death experienced by black people in the past and the present day. 

"It speaks powerfully of love, family and hope despite the anger, outrage and hurt that it holds. 

“Audiences in Venice have been deeply moved and impacted by the work and this screening tour is an open invitation to people from across the country to experience this significant work first hand. 

“We’re honoured to be working with the artist and our partners LUX Scotland to ensure as many people as possible see the film ahead of Alberta’s major solo show opening at The National Galleries of Scotland next Spring.”