Internationally acclaimed British-Nigerian photographer Misan Harriman has launched his first solo exhibition, The Purpose of Light, at Hope 93, a gallery and art advisory space in Fitzrovia, central London. Running from 10th July to 18th September, the exhibition features over 100 original photographic works captured between 2019 and 2025, documenting moments of global upheaval and everyday courage.
Hope 93 founder Aki Abiola describes the exhibition as a fitting testament to Harriman’s rare ability to elevate ordinary people into the frame of history itself:
“Misan’s work captures something truly rare: the quiet, transformative power of real people making extraordinary change,” Abiola said. “His images don’t just document history; they hold it still, long enough for us to feel it. Through his lens, we see the world not as it is framed in headlines, but as it lives in hearts and communities.”
Telling Global Stories Through Light
The Purpose of Light moves across continents—from London to Lagos, Minneapolis to Marseille—presenting portraits of protestors, parents, students, and community builders. Harriman’s goal is to honour those whose courage shapes our shared future.
“I have always used my lens as a form of protest,” Harriman explained. “Light reveals truth, and my purpose has always been to honour those whose courage shapes our future. These images are not just stories; they are acts of remembrance and resistance.”
Each thematic strand in the exhibition explores civil rights and protest, climate and cultural activism, queer and trans visibility, belonging and intimacy, and global identity—offering a nuanced, human-centred portrait of our times.
A Self-Taught Photographer with Global Impact
Misan Harriman rose to international prominence in 2020 when his powerful images of London’s Black Lives Matter protests became defining visuals of the movement, lauded for their emotional immediacy and depth. That same year, he made history as the first Black photographer to shoot a British Vogue cover in the magazine’s 104-year history. His September 2020 cover featured Adwoa Aboah and Marcus Rashford in a powerful meditation on activism.
Beyond social movements, Harriman has focused his lens on change-makers even in celebrity culture, photographing figures such as Angelina Jolie, Tom Cruise, Cate Blanchett, Stormzy, and Rihanna—always with a view to capturing their social impact and humanity.
Expanding His Storytelling Practice
In 2024, Harriman’s artistic practice expanded into film with his directorial debut The After, a short film starring David Oyelowo that earned an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short. The film was praised for its raw, empathetic exploration of grief and healing, demonstrating Harriman’s growing commitment to telling stories that explore justice and human resilience in new mediums.
His leadership extends into the institutional art world as well. In 2021, he became the Chair of the Southbank Centre, the UK’s largest arts institution—making history as the first Black person to hold the role.
Aki Abiola and Misan Harriman
A Gallery with a Mission of Inclusion
The Purpose of Light is equally a milestone for Hope 93, which opened with a mission to support artists at all stages of their careers—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Founded by Aki Abiola, who also sits on the Tate Museum Acquisition Committee and the board of Pallant House, Hope 93 provides a platform for artists to connect with collectors, community, and opportunity.
“We are honoured to present The Purpose of Light, an exhibition that embodies the values we stand for: equity, truth, and the belief that art can drive real change,” Abiola said.
The gallery works with international curators, galleries, and museums to amplify both emerging and established voices, creating a space where art serves as both reflection and catalyst for social progress.
A Tribute to Courage, Truth, and Visibility
Through its five thematic strands, The Purpose of Light challenges visitors to engage with the humanity behind headlines, celebrating those whose struggles and dreams shape our collective story. It is a testament to photography’s power not merely to witness history but to participate in its making.
For more details, visit hope93.com and follow @hope93gallery on social media.