50 years on from Arts Britain Ignores: how much has changed for black and Asian artists?

A landmark 1976 report by cultural historian Naseem Khan exposed systemic exclusion of minority ethnic artists in British arts institutions, arguing for a more inclusive national cultural identity. Commissioned by bodies like the Arts Council of Great Britain, the study highlighted overlooked contributions—from bhangra music to Black painters and Ukrainian dance—demanding recognition and support. Half a century later, debates over representation in British arts persist, raising questions about progress and lingering barriers. The upcoming conference will revisit Khan’s influential findings and their enduring impact on cultural policy.

Conference to explore legacy of Naseem Khan’s seminal 1976 report about exclusion of minority ethnic artistsIt is 50 years since cultural historian Naseem Khan’s challenge to the British arts establishment was first published, and the question of who and what counts as British continues to be contested.The Arts Britain Ignores – Khan’s groundbreaking 1976 report, commissioned by organisations including the then Arts Council of Great Britain, presented a vision of a pluralistic national culture, in which the creativity of Britons of diverse ethnic backgrounds – from bhangra music, to black painters and Ukrainian dance – should be recognised, supported and respected. Continue reading...