A new photographic exhibition documenting the diverse cultures of 21st century London opened today at the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG).
‘People in London’ is the culmination of five years’ work by photographer Richard Slater. Working in collaboration with the Society, Richard has explored, photographed and filmed people, religions, cultures and events across the capital. 400 of his best photographs are displayed in the exhibition, alongside videos and maps.
The exhibition is accompanied by his book of the same title, which includes more than 200 of Richard’s favourite photos and some of his best stories and London facts.
Richard, a Londoner born and bred, thought he knew his city until he set out on this five-year exploration. “If you live in London I guarantee you will see some aspect of yourself in these images, plus others that will seem utterly alien,” he says.
“You won’t believe that some of them were shot in London. It’s a work of social geography and also a portrait of the people who live in the greatest city in the world. The exhibition and book celebrate the incredible diversity and energy in this city through a selection of photographs that demonstrate what a colourful, dynamic and vibrant place London is today.”
‘People in London’ shows the capital to be a kaleidoscope of colour. The images include everything from: Pearly Kings and Queens in Covent Garden to ‘queens’ parading at Pride in London; from Ladies’ Day race-goers at Ascot to Michael Jackson Flash-mobbers in the square mile; and from Primrose Hill Druids to Sikh New Year celebrants in Southall.