Singing star Sister Aisha was in her home city last night to open a new exhibition at Wolverhampton Central Library showcasing the very best of reggae record sleeves.
‘Covers: Retracing Reggae Record Sleeves in London’ is a book and touring exhibition by photographer Alex Bartsch and curator Al ‘Fingers’ Newman, who has documented reggae record covers that were shot in London between 1967 and 1988.
The project features over 50 reggae record sleeves, photographed decades later in their original locations, held up at arm’s-length to blend in with their surroundings.
The exhibition runs until Sunday, November 18, is free to attend and can be seen during library opening times: Monday to Thursday (10am–7pm), Friday (10am–5pm) and Saturday (10am–2pm).
City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Economy, Councillor John Reynolds, said: “Music and art are a fantastic collaboration and this exhibition celebrates an iconic era.
“Visitors will be able to see the photographs at Wolverhampton Central Library and pin point attractions around London that make the record covers come to life.”
Presented alongside the sleeves are interviews with those involved in the making of the records – including the original singers, producers, photographers, graphic designers and record label employees.
This unique series offers a fascinating insight into the history of reggae music in the UK, an often overlooked but essential part of Britain’s musical identity and popular culture and features Aisha, also known as Sister Aisha, who is a reggae singer from City of Wolverhampton.
Aisha, Al ‘Fingers’ Newman and Alex Bartsch last night (Wednesday) attended a special launch at Central Library.
