Arts Britain Ignores: 50 Years of Black and Asian Artists 2026

Fifty years after the publication of Arts Britain Ignores, the landmark report by cultural historian Naseem Khan, the UK arts sector continues to grapple with issues of diversity and representation for black and Asian artists. Khan’s 1976 report, commissioned by organisations including the Arts Council of Great Britain, exposed the systemic neglect of ethnic minority arts and called for a pluralistic national culture. Today, as Arts Council England’s new chair Dawn Airey prepares to deliver a speech at a conference celebrating Khan’s legacy, we examine how much has truly changed.

The Legacy of Arts Britain Ignores

Naseem Khan’s Arts Britain Ignores was a wake-up call. It documented the vibrant grassroots arts practices thriving in ethnic minority communities—from bhangra music to black painters and Ukrainian dance—that were largely ignored by mainstream funding bodies. Khan argued that these art forms were an integral part of British culture and deserved recognition, support, and respect. The report led to the creation of the minority arts advisory service and influenced subsequent diversity policies.

Progress for Black and Asian Artists

In the decades since, black and Asian British visual artists have achieved critical acclaim. Figures like Frank Bowling, Sonia Boyce, and Anish Kapoor are now household names, with their works exhibited in major galleries and commanding high prices at auction. The Turner Prize has been awarded to artists such as Chris Ofili and Steve McQueen, and institutions like the Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage continue to champion diverse voices.

Key Milestones in UK Arts Diversity

• 1976: Publication of Arts Britain Ignores.
• 1980s: Establishment of minority arts organisations and festivals.
• 1990s: Increased representation in mainstream galleries and museums.
• 2000s: Major retrospectives for black and Asian artists.
• 2010s: Diversity initiatives by Arts Council England and others.
• 2020s: Renewed focus on decolonising collections and inclusive programming.

Challenges That Remain

Despite progress, disparities persist. A 2021 report by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation found that artists of colour receive a disproportionately small share of arts funding. Representation in leadership roles within cultural institutions also remains low. The question of who and what counts as British continues to be contested, as seen in debates over national identity and the England football team’s diversity.

Funding and Representation: A Comparison

The Road Ahead

As the arts sector evolves, the principles of Arts Britain Ignores remain relevant. Ensuring equitable access to funding, resources, and opportunities for black and Asian artists is essential for a truly representative cultural landscape. The conference at Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the work still to be done.

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