Archer's Legacy Lives
Venue: Battersea Arts Centre
Date: 29–30/05/2026
Type: Exhibition/Installation Homegrown Festival Theatre Workshop
See all forthcoming events for this venue:
Battersea Arts Centre
Event web site: https://bac.org.uk/…
A three-part exploration of the life and legacy of the first Black Mayor of a London Borough, John Archer.
Part 1: Exhibition
Part 2: Roots of the People
Part 3: From Roots to Creation
In 1913, John Archer was elected as the Mayor of the Borough of Battersea in the former Town Hall, now Battersea Arts Centre.
Across three connected events, Archer's Legacy Lives invites you to engage with Black British history through art, performance, and creative participation.
Part 1: Exhibition – An exploration of Archer's political significance and enduring cultural impact.
Part 2: Roots of the People – Experience an original poem inspired by the former Mayor. After this performance, create your own piece of writing inspired by John Archer and your own personal experiences.
Part 3: From Roots to Creation – Transform your discoveries into a zine, using art and creativity to reflect on history.
Archer's Legacy Lives is a powerful exploration of a key moment in Black British history that continues to shape the world we live in today.
Using visual art and text-based displays, Part 1 of Archer's Legacy Lives centres Black British history reflecting on Archer's political achievements and ongoing relevance.
Dates and Times:
Exhibition:
29-30 May, 10am – 11pm
Roots of the People
29 May, 6pm – 8pm
From Roots to Creation
30 May, 3pm – 5pm
Tickets:
Exhibition: Free (no booking required)
Roots of the People: Pay What You Can (Recommended Price £6)*
From Roots to Creation: Pay What You Can (Recommended Price £6)*
*all orders subject to a transaction fee of £2
Running Time:
Exhibition: This is a drop-in exhibition
Roots of the People: 2 hours
From Roots to Creation: 2 hours
The Exhibition takes place in person in Elm House
Roots of the People takes place in person in Tom's Café
Address:
Battersea Arts Centre, Lavendar Hill, London, SW11 5TN
Phone: 020 7223 2223
Web site: https://bac.org.uk