© Image Copyright Henry Bourne 

Clothing is an essential part of everyone’s identity, and folk costume is an important representation of communities’ shared rituals and customs. ‘Making Mischief’ will celebrate and safeguard the folk dress heritage important to a wide range of communities, including refugee and immigrant folk cultures, as well as new and emerging folk cultures.

We will co-create with those actively seeking to preserve their at-risk folk heritage: Carnival (primarily Afro-Caribbean communities); Jack in the Green festival (who have embraced LGBTQIA* ‘Gay Bogies’) and (working class, east London) Pearlies.

The very nature of British folk custom as a local and ‘unrecognised’ form of heritage means it is: rarely recorded or preserved; folk dress is often made of perishable plants and flowers; and its performative nature relies on regular engagement to remain alive.

‘Making Mischief' consists of 2 exhibitions accompanied by an ambitious public program of workshops, talks, new commissions, as well as an oral history and collecting programme. Using high profile exhibition spaces will contribute to the perception of folk heritage as a mainstream form of culture worthy of preservation and future investment.

The Making More Mischief exhibition at LCF East Bank (9 April - 22 June 2024) offers a fresh perspective on the pivotal role of costume in local and seasonal folk customs, with a distinct focus on London.

This exhibition presents captivating narratives, objects, and items ranging from the iconic Pearly Kings and Queens to the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival as well as never before-seen installations/soundscapes and workshops resulting from collaborations with Numbi Arts and Pxssy Palace.

An accompanying series of oral histories, captured by oral history trained volunteers, delves into the vibrant world of folk participants, costume makers and wearers reflecting the diverse tapestry of British folk customs and the individuals who bring them to life.

This entire project has been supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF).