About Michael

Michael Mapp, a formidable presence in British visual arts, stands out as a multidisciplinary creator whose work spans the realms of photography, graphic design, and creative production. Based in the vibrant landscape of Wandsworth and Battersea, Mapp's lens captures the pulse of contemporary Black British life with unflinching clarity and nuance.

Born under the Caribbean sun of Trinidad, Mapp's artistic vision is deeply informed by the complexities of diasporic identity. His photographs, at once intimate and expansive, offer a penetrating exploration of heritage and belonging in modern Britain. Each frame serves as a visual treatise on the African-Caribbean experience, challenging viewers to engage with narratives often relegated to the margins.

Mapp's work has commanded attention in the upper echelons of the art world. The walls of London's OXO Tower have borne witness to his striking imagery as part of the African & African-Caribbean Design Diaspora exhibition, a landmark showcase of Black artistry. Across the Atlantic, his visual language has found resonance at New York's International Contemporary Furniture Fair, while closer to home, Lancaster House deemed his work worthy of inclusion among Britain's creative vanguard.

Beyond the gallery space, Mapp's influence permeates significant cultural initiatives. His role as Creative Production Manager for the Expectations Project, a Heritage Lottery-funded venture, speaks to his commitment to preserving Black British narratives. More recently, his 'Black Wandsworth' series offers an unvarnished yet deeply empathetic portrait of his local community, forming a crucial component of the borough's year-long celebration of Black history.

In founding Urban Studio Sessions CIC, Mapp extends his artistic philosophy into tangible community action. This Wandsworth-based non-profit ingeniously melds arts with urban sports, providing a creative lifeline to over 3,350 Londoners since 2018. It's a testament to Mapp's belief in the transformative power of creative expression and physical engagement.

Mapp's oeuvre is characterised by its unflinching gaze and technical mastery. His images don't merely document; they interrogate, challenge, and ultimately celebrate the multifaceted nature of Black British identity. In a cultural landscape often defined by its divisions, Mapp's work serves as a powerful unifying force, inviting viewers to see beyond the surface and engage with the rich tapestry of contemporary British life.