What's On Guide | February - May 25

FEBRUARY – MAY 2025

JOIN US ON

COMMUNITY CAFÉ EVENINGS! ENJOY DELICIOUS PLANT-BASED DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD EVERY FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH FROM 5PM TO 7PM. OUR “PAY WHAT YOU CAN” MEALS ARE OPEN TO ALL, PROVIDING A WARM AND INCLUSIVE SPACE TO ENJOY FOOD, CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY, AND EXPLORE OUR EXHIBITIONS OUTSIDE REGULAR HOURS. EVERYONE IS WELCOME - COME AS YOU ARE! AVAILABLE DATES: 6 MARCH; 20 MARCH; 3 APRIL; 17 APRIL; 1 MAY; 15 MAY Supported by

Image credit: Tom Morley

Image credit: Tom Morley

As we enter another season at New Art Exchange, I invite you to join us in an inspiring journey where art and community converge to shape powerful stories of identity, advocacy, and belonging.

This spring, we proudly present The Lovers, a profound exhibition by Sunil Gupta and Charan Singh that explores the evolving visibility of LGBTQIA+ communities through deeply personal photographic portraits.

These works celebrate love and resilience and remind us of today’s challenges. Our Connecting the Dots gathering will also spark vital conversations among leaders from the global ethnic majority, reaffirming our commitment to equity and creative action in pressing global change.

We’re also excited to announce the reopening of Corner, our redesigned café.

This warm and inviting space celebrates community, sustainability, and creativity.

With an updated menu featuring plantbased dishes inspired by flavours from GALLERY & CAFÉBAR OPENING TIMES Tue - Sat 10am - 4pm Closed Sun & Mon Closed Bank Holidays

www.nae.org.uk 0115 924 8630 info@nae.org.uk

around the world, The Corner is a place to connect, reflect, and savour the essence of NAE’s ethos. Whether you’re dropping by for a quick coffee or attending our Community Café Evenings, this refreshed space offers an environment where conversations flow as quickly as the food and drink.

This season, our programming celebrates local and global voices, from the YOUnique Festival to the Beyond the Walls mural launch—fostering connection and creativity.

At NAE, art sparks change, inspiring reflection, dialogue, and new possibilities.

With performances, workshops, and screenings, we invite all to take part.

Our doors are always open—let’s keep building a vibrant, inclusive community.

Saad-Eddine Said CEO and Artistic Director New Art Exchange

NEW ART EXCHANGE 39—41 Gregory Boulevard Nottingham NG7 6BE

@newartexchange

A short walk from The Forest tram stop.

New Art Exchange

FREE ENTRY

@new_art_exchange @newartexchange

Cover image: Sunil Gupta

EXHIBITION

THE LOVERS SUNIL GUPTA & CHARAN SINGH 22 FEBRUARY – 3 MAY 2025 MAIN GALLERY

Image credits: Sunil Gupta

EXHIBITION

In Lovers, Revisited, Gupta and Singh picture couples from all over the world today and reshoot participants from the original series 40 years later. In doing so, they revisit the dialogue within the work, documenting cultural shifts and offering a timely reflection on the changing visibility of LGBTQIA+ communities today.

The Lovers sees internationally renowned artist Sunil Gupta present his critically acclaimed photographic series, Lovers: Ten Years On (1984/85), alongside a new body of work produced with artist and husband Charan Singh, Lovers, Revisited (2024-). Created 40 years apart, both collections depict LGBTQIA+ couples, as directed by the sitters, photographed in their homes.

This new exhibition marks four decades since the 28 black-and-white original photographs have been Juxtaposed against 12 new works; the timing of this exhibition goes beyond a celebration of the original series milestone to act as a reminder of the past and the ongoing struggle for visibility for LGBTQIA+ communities, particularly in a time when the UK grows less safe for queer people.

The Lovers stand as both a celebration of the past and a vital reminder of the need for continued advocacy and representation in the face of ongoing challenges.

Throughout his career, Gupta has focused on issues of representation, racial identity, and LGBTQIA+ activism, including AIDS and HIV awareness. 1984 marked the end of his first long-term relationship of ten years, and the beginning of Lovers: Ten Years On photographic series.

At this pivotal moment, he began to create portraits to reframe the lives of gay couples that would challenge the prevailing commercial stereotypes of LGBTQIA+ relationships in visual culture.

NAE acknowledges the support of The Art House in Wakefield and curators Damon Jackson-Waldock and Emily Ryalls in creating this exhibition.

Like Gupta, Singh’s artistic practice also engages with the void of representation for him personally and his communities.

This exploration of absence has long been central to both artists’ critical projects, and their recent collaborative practice has fostered a dynamic dialogue between their works.

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE

Image credits: Sunil Gupta 5

RAHEEL KHAN 9 JANUARY – 5 MARCH 2025 Raheel Khan (b. 1992, Nottingham) is an artist and musician exploring the intersections of sound, text, installation and performance.

Originally a student of Economics, Raheel has moved towards an artistic practice that observes the effects of transnationalism, cultural infrastructures and future policy.

Current research explores the cyclical nature of time and promise through a compositional framework.

During his residency at NAE Raheel will continue his research around loss of language. He will also deliver ensemble recordings and explore local archives around labour, migration and belief systems.

JANE THAKOORDIN 21 JANUARY - 22 MARCH 2025

Image credit: Tom Morley

Jane Thakoordin is a participatory artist who creates work in collaboration with others. A fan of the bright, bold and beautiful, Jane’s practice is rooted in her Guyanese heritage, and she typically works with textiles and repurposed objects. Raised in a highly politicised family she regularly creates protest banners and artwork for activist organisations. During her residency at NAE, Jane plans to take key elements from her mixed heritage and interrogate this, as well as coordinating a participatory project alongside local organisations 6

NAE EVENTS

CONNECTING THE DOTS THURSDAY 6 MARCH 10AM–3PM

Connecting the Dots is a one-day gathering for inspiring leaders from the global ethnic majority, facilitated by Uzma Johal.

The event focuses on urgent themes like governance, civic responsibility, creative climate action, and curatorial practice.

Participants will engage in discussions and Q&A sessions, exploring how to build inclusive governance, foster civic leadership, and address the climate crisis. Join us to share insights, amplify community voices, and drive transformative change towards equity and resilience.

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE

NAE EVENTS EXHIBITION & SEASON LAUNCH:

SUNIL GUPTA & CHARAN SINGH: THE LOVERS FRIDAY 21 FEBRUARY 6PM–LATE Join us for the launch of The Lovers

by Sunil Gupta and Charan Singh, a powerful exhibition celebrating LGBTQIA+ relationships and visibility supported by The Art House. Experience the mesmerising sounds of String Beats, blending classical Sarangi, Sitar, and Tabla with meditative Ragas, Bollywood hits, and Indian folk melodies.

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE Image credit: Tom Morley 7

NAE EVENTS CINEMA SCREENING OF

JOYLAND

THURSDAY 6 MARCH 6:30PM–8:30PM Joyland is a Pakistani film about Haider, a working-class man who, after landing work at a dance theatre becomes infatuated with Biba, a confident transgender dancer.

The film explores themes of gender, sexuality, and societal norms, offering a groundbreaking and empathetic portrayal of trans people in South Asian cinema. + 15 ONLY | FREE

Come early at 5PM for our “Pay What You Can” Community Café, where you can enjoy a tasty Pakistani-inspired menu before the film at 6:30PM.

RASTARELLA FALADE: FORWARD EVER FRIDAY 7 MARCH 7PM-9PM

During this intimate and interactive sharing event, Rastarella Falade will present a performance work developed during her Reside residency period at NAE. Considered a work in progress as Rastarella works towards creating her own one-woman show, this part improv and part scripted performance will delve into Rastarella’s lived experiences.

Advisory notice – please be advised that this performance may contain references to child sexual abuse, mental health conditions and racially motivated abuse.

18 + ONLY

BOOK YOUR TICKET ON OUR WEBSITE NAE.ORG.UK 8

NAE EVENTS

YOUNIQUE FESTIVAL

IN CONVERSATION WITH

SUNIL GUPTA & CHARAN SINGH

WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH – SATURDAY 15 MARCH

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 6:30PM–8PM

Liven up your week and join us at YOUnique Festival. This free event celebrates the incredible local talent the city has to offer, featuring a diverse lineup of activities and performances for everyone to enjoy.

Join us for this illustrated talk between our exhibiting artists Sunil Gupta and Charan Singh. The conversation will explore the contemporary relevance of Sunil’s exhibited works from the 1980s, the emergence of Sunil and Charan’s collective practice, and the role of the artists’ work within LGBTQIA+ visual activism today.

Kick off the festival on Wednesday with a cosy film night showcasing some amazing Nottingham based producers. Start your warmup to the weekend with our poetry lineup on Thursday, spotlighting some of Nottingham’s best poetry collectives.

Friday night commences the live music series, bringing you some of the best bands Nottingham has to offer.

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE

Saturday promises a jam-packed day, starting with chill tunes by local DJs in the café, alongside creative workshops, local craft stalls and food vendor. As the night goes on, get ready for an unforgettable evening with a high-energy sound system to close out the festival in style.

Don’t miss out on this celebration of local culture and creativity—come be part of the YOUnique experience!

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE BOOK YOUR TICKET ON OUR WEBSITE NAE.ORG.UK 9

NAE EVENTS A TRANSITIONAL SPACE, AN ARTISTIC SHOWCASE AND DISCUSSION EVENT BY

SIDESADDLE

SATURDAY 26 APRIL 3PM–6PM Notts Trans Hub took part in Reside - an eight-week residency at NAE. During this period, Sidesaddle was established, a collective of creatives from Notts Trans Hub. Through this event, Sidesaddle will showcase artwork produced during their residency including performance, illustration, and photography. Additionally, in response to the themes in Sunil Gupta’s exhibition, the group will host a discussion about the status of LGBTQ+ rights and the legacy of the Notts Trans Hub charity. A full schedule for this event will be shared on our website.

BEYOND THE WALLS MURAL LAUNCH

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE

SATURDAY 3 MAY 5PM-LATE

Join us on Saturday the 3rd of May for a celebration of our Beyond the Walls project.

From 5pm we will be meeting at Corner for a brief introduction, then go guided tour through Hyson Green Market to launch the various murals and explore the stories behind them. We will also be joined by the various community groups and members that have collaborated throughout the project.

At New Art Exchange from 6pm onwards, there will be an evening of live music, and tasty food provided by Corner cafe. This will also be your last chance to see Sunil Gupta’s show and hear from the artist himself.

We hope you can join us!

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE BOOK YOUR TICKET ON OUR WEBSITE NAE.ORG.UK 10

FRIDAY NIGHT SOCIALS

CREATIVE CORNER: POTTERY WITH PAULA FRIDAY 21 MARCH 6PM–10PM

Try something new for a Friday night with our pottery workshop. No previous experience is necessary, just bring yourself!

Tools and materials will be provided.

Prepare to get your hands dirty with Paula Poute as you spend the evening creating, the perfect way to decompress from a busy week and warm up for the weekend.

Expect a fun evening with chill vibes and like-minded people. Leave the night with a new set of skills and something that you made with your own hands!

BRAZILIAN WINTER CARNIVAL FRIDAY 7 MARCH 7PM–LATE

Spaces are limited, so make sure you reserve your place.

Escape the cold of outside and immerse yourself in the warmth and energy of Brazilian Carnival!

ALL AGES WELCOME

Join us and let the music carry you away to the streets of Rio and beyond. Expect a fun filled evening with lively rhythm, dazzling costumes, traditional food and don’t forget about Caipirinha’s, Brazil’s national cocktail!

Come and celebrate with us! Feel the rhythm, dance with joy, and immerse yourself in Brazil Carnival.

ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE BOOK YOUR TICKET ON OUR WEBSITE NAE.ORG.UK 11

FRIDAY NIGHT SOCIALS

THE FADO VADIO PRESENTS: A NIGHT OF ART, MUSIC AND DRUMS

FRIDAY 28 MARCH 7PM–LATE

Step into a world of romance with The Fado Vadio Presents: A Night of Art, Music & Drums. This intimate evening will unfold within our main gallery where you will enjoy a fusion of live music, poetry, and dance.

The night will feature the unique sounds of The Fado Vadio known for their original compositions that blend the soulful traditions of Folk music with the energy of Rock and the sophistication of Jazz, alongside talented musicians like Chris Harris, Joao Roque, Ellie Kennedy, and more. Your host Carolina Rodrigues will guide us through an evening beginning with intimate poetry, dance, and romantic melodies, before building into vibrant bossa nova beats.

POETIC JUSTICE: A NIGHT FOR PAC

Come for an unforgettable night of connection, creativity, and passion!

WITH CHRIS OLIVER

FRIDAY 4 APRIL 7PM–LATE

ALL AGES WELCOME

Join us for a Night of Old-School Vibes!

We’re throwing it back to the golden era of Hip Hop music with a night dedicated to the legend himself, Tupac Shakur. Hosted by the one and only Chris Oliver, this event is all about celebrating hip hop, rap, R&B, and poetry to pay homage to the oldschool ways of music and storytelling.

Expect soulful beats, raw lyrics, and vibes that’ll have you feeling the energy all night long. The night will feature unforgettable performances from local legends, including Local Healers, Omari, Jalle, Chris Oliver and more!

Whether you’re a long-time Tupac fan or simply love the rhythm and raw energy of old-school Hip Hop, this is the place to be. + 15 ONLY | FREE BOOK YOUR TICKET ON OUR WEBSITE NAE.ORG.UK 12

FRIDAY NIGHT SOCIALS

LOCAL LEGEND: JIMMY ROCKET & FRIENDS FRIDAY 11 APRIL 7PM–LATE

Join us for our first Local Legends series with Jimmy Rocket & Friends, a night celebrating Nottingham’s music scene.

Expect raw lyricism, heavy beats, and high-energy DJ sets, with surprise guests bringing the heat. This night is for true music lovers, from hard-hitting bars to deep basslines. Enjoy soulful flavours from local food traders as we get the community together for an unforgettable vibe. +15 ONLY| FREE Image credit: Martin Makowski

EXPERIENCE GREECE: REBETIKO, MEZZE AND MYTH

FRIDAY 9 MAY 6PM–LATE

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the rich traditions of Greece! Enjoy live music from Rebettingham, a local Greek/Cypriot band bringing the soulful sounds of rebetiko to Nottingham. Indulge in delicious Greek food and beer and learn to dance like a true Greek with a traditional dance workshop.

Plus, don’t miss a captivating Greek theatre performance by Palkosenico, transporting you to the heart of Hellenic storytelling.

Come for the music, stay for the culture—Opa! ALL AGES WELCOME | FREE

BOOK YOUR TICKET ON OUR WEBSITE NAE.ORG.UK 13

FAMILY AND YOUNG PEOPLE

SATURDAY ART CLUB

YARD YOUNG ACTORS (12–18 YEARS OLD)

8, 22 FEBRUARY; 8, 22 MARCH; 26 APRIL; 10, 24 MAY

WEDNESDAY’S 5-7PM 5, 12, 26 FEBRUARY; 5, 12, 19, 26 MARCH; 7, 14, 21 MAY

Kickstart your Saturday with these free drop-in workshops, which offer space for creative learning and lots of fun. Artist-led activities change each session, making this a perfect chance to get creative as a family.

YARD Young Actors is for 13-18-year-olds; during the sessions, young people will develop creative skills, explore different performance styles and create their own work.

JOIN US: FREE and open to all; come along and try a session. To find out more, contact yard@nae.org.uk

Working closely and collaboratively, they explore the issues that matter to them and develop their style as performers. They create exciting, thought-provoking, and original work.

JOIN US: FREE and open to all; we welcome new members, so come along and try a session. To book your place or to find out more, contact yard@nae.org.uk.

YARD YOUTH THEATRE (8–11 YEARS OLD)

TUESDAY’S 4.15-6.15PM 4, 11, 25 FEBRUARY; 4, 11, 18, 25 MARCH; 6, 13, 20 MAY YARD Youth Theatre is for young people aged 8-12. During sessions, they will develop confidence, communication, and creative skills through games, storymaking, and drama exercises.

In addition to making new friends, they explore new ways to express themselves and share their own stories. Sessions are safe, fun, and stimulate the senses!

JOIN US: FREE and open to all; we welcome new members, so come along and try a session. To book your place or to find out more, contact yard@nae.org.uk

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HIRE OUR SPACES INVEST IN THE COMMUNITY, ONE BOOKING AT A TIME. FROM WORKSHOPS AND FILM SCREENINGS TO MEETINGS AND EVENTS, WE CAN TAILOR TO YOUR VISION.

BY CHOOSING US, YOU’RE NOT JUST BOOKING A SPACE, YOU’RE MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT IN OUR COMMUNITY.

BOOKINGS@NAE.ORG.UK OR CALL US ON 0115 924 8630