In the realm of art that defies categorization, Benji Reid stands as a pioneer. A British artist born in 1966, Reid’s journey from the forefront of hip hop theatre to becoming an award-winning photographer is as unconventional and compelling as the images he creates. Blending Afro-futurist aesthetics with poignant narratives from his own life, Reid orchestrates a unique visual experience that unfolds before your eyes, seamlessly integrating photography, choreography, and theatre into striking and surreal compositions.
Reid coined the term “choreo-photolist” to describe his practice, where photography transcends mere visual capture to become a form of choreographed storytelling. His work delves into themes of race, nationhood, gender, and the complexities of Black British identity, often focusing on Black masculinity and mental health. Through his lens, Reid crafts hyper-realities that invite viewers to ponder the nuances of human existence and the rich tapestry of emotions that define our shared humanity.
“There is dance in everything, but there is no dance without dramatic tension, and there is no image without soul.These are the substratum of the Choreo Photolist. Within these walls lay a playfulness of elements, hearts in exploding backpacks, goldfish bowls as Astronaut helmets balloons as transportation. but the body in space has always been my weapon of choice my voice here I attempt to tell static stories that explore issue around mental heath, freedom and love of self.The aim is to create without boundaries, slipping from the black dreamscape to the political.”
The genesis of Reid’s photography career was borne out of necessity and resilience. Facing financial adversity when his theatre company lost funding in 2011, Reid turned to photography as a means of artistic expression and economic stability. What began as documenting his daughter’s growth evolved into a profound exploration of visual storytelling. For Reid, photography became not just a means of documentation but a revolutionary act—a defiance against the constraints imposed by circumstance, a testament to his unwavering commitment to creativity.
His transition from theatre director to acclaimed photographer marked a pivotal shift in his artistic trajectory. Embracing the camera, Reid discovered new dimensions to his storytelling prowess, transforming everyday objects into fantastical props that narrate tales of resilience, identity, and societal commentary. His debut photography exhibition, A Thousand Words, showcased at Contact Theatre in Manchester in 2016, unveiled a glimpse into Reid’s evolving narrative style—a blend of theatricality and photographic finesse that captivated audiences and critics alike.
Central to Reid’s artistic philosophy is the belief that art should provoke dialogue and challenge perceptions. Through his interdisciplinary approach, he invites viewers to immerse themselves in narratives that traverse the boundaries of time and space, inviting introspection and empathy. Each image curated by Reid is a portal into a world where imagination meets reality, where the ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary.
“My minds eye is always drawn towards the dramatic, the incongruous that speak of the many worldsthat resides within us, which in turn sheds light on our humanity.”
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Reid is also a dedicated educator, imparting his knowledge and passion for visual storytelling to future generations. His commitment to mentorship underscores his belief in the transformative power of art as a tool for social change and personal empowerment.
In essence, Benji Reid is more than a photographer; he is a visionary whose work transcends traditional artistic boundaries. His choreo-photolism not only captures moments frozen in time but also ignites conversations, challenges preconceptions, and inspires others to embrace the unconventional. With each click of the shutter, Benji Reid continues to shape narratives that resonate deeply with audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art and photography. As he continues to push the boundaries of creativity, Reid invites us all to journey with him into the realms where imagination knows no limits.
