We are thrilled to share some exciting news regarding one of DegreeArt’s most compelling voices, Joshua Donkor.
Continuing his momentum following his recent residency and solo exhibition at the Holburne Museum, Joshua has been announced for a major dual exhibition titled Familial Traces. Opening in April 2026, the show sees Joshua’s work in dialogue with artist Lela Harris at the prestigious Abbot Hall Art Gallery in Kendal.
The Exhibition: Uncovering the Ordinary
Familial Traces is an exploration of the stories that slip through the cracks of traditional history. The exhibition brings together two artists who use portraiture not just to capture a likeness, but to archive a legacy.
The exhibition is a glimpse into the "everyday lives, hopes, dreams and fears of ordinary people," inviting audiences to explore their own histories and sense of belonging within the UK.
Two Perspectives, One Narrative
The power of this exhibition lies in the synergy between the two artists:
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Lela Harris: Driven by a desire to uncover the stories of those often overlooked and marginalised by history, Harris adds humanity and a full inner life to her subjects, exploring deep themes of identity and belonging.
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Joshua Donkor: Following similar themes, Joshua focuses on personal family stories of migration, diaspora, and cultural amalgamation. His work explores family experiences across multiple generations and time periods in both Ghana and the UK.
Together, Harris and Donkor seek to uncover and celebrate forgotten histories. By layering personal fabrics and photographs, Joshua creates a map of the "in-between," inviting the audience to connect with different perspectives and cultures.
"My goal is to tell people’s individual stories. What makes the work accessible is that so many people have a background of being 'in between' different cultures and families." - Joshua Donkor
Plan Your Visit
If you are in the North this spring, we highly recommend visiting this profound exploration of the cultural experience.
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Dates: 11 April – 3 October 2026
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Location: Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal, LA9 5AL
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Private View: Friday, 10 April, 6:00 pm
For any enquiries, please contact Isobel Beauchamp | Isobel@DegreeArt.com
