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Afro-Futurism Meets the Crown
Rather than a conventional homage to Britain’s royal heritage, Queens is a bold re-envisioning of monarchy, one that draws power from a blend of British and African influences. Created by photographer Steve Bright, this striking series captures a contemporary vision of Black royalty, merging the elegance of historical regalia with the richness of African cultural heritage.
The timing of this project is especially poignant, launched as the UK reflects on Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy, it offers a distinctly different perspective on what it means to be a queen today.
Set in Tottenham, London, Bright’s work brings together a diverse selection of Black British women and non-binary individuals who embody grace, strength, and resilience. By photographing them in this regally-inspired series, he reimagines Black royalty and brings a fresh narrative to the concept of queenship, one that extends beyond the traditional monarchy and speaks to the heritage, history, and future of the Black British community.
The visual's clothing and costume play a central role, mixing influences from British royal imagery with African and Afro-futuristic elements. The result is a striking visual dialogue that connects different historical and cultural dimensions, celebrating both British and African influences. Drawing inspiration from classic portraits of British monarchs, Bright uses symbols such as crowns, swords, and regal robes to anchor each individual in a space that feels iconic and powerful. However, instead of mirroring the European royal aesthetics as they are, he incorporates African patterns, textiles, and accessories that give each piece a vibrant, layered quality, filled with significance.
This fusion reflects not only the multicultural identity of Black Britons but also the idea that royalty can be redefined in a way that feels inclusive and culturally resonant. By integrating African and Afro-futuristic elements, such as bold textiles, beadwork, and intricate hairstyles, Bright’s work nods to a lineage of African queens and warriors who ruled with grace and strength long before European monarchies came into being.
Afro-futuristic touches, in particular, bring a sense of modernity and vision, suggesting that Black royalty is not just about honoring the past; it’s about envisioning a future in which Black individuals can embrace and express their heritage freely.
Bright’s series also plays with symbols that defy traditional hierarchies, presenting Black British women in positions of power, creativity, and resilience. For instance, elements of Afro-futuristic armor in certain costumes symbolize protection and strength, while brightly colored fabrics and patterns draw the eye to the wearer’s presence. Each subject radiates individuality and character, reminding the viewer that there is no single image of royalty, and that true queenship is defined by authenticity, cultural pride, and resilience.
In Queens, Bright presents Black British women not just as symbols but as sovereign figures in their own right. They are queens on their own terms, redefined by their personal histories, strength, and heritage. Each photograph in the series becomes a space where Black royalty is celebrated, transcending traditional notions of British kingship to encompass a more inclusive and diverse sense of monarchy.
As Bright’s Queens series continues to resonate, it offers a striking commentary on the power of representation. In a world where images of monarchy are still predominantly white and Eurocentric, it serves as a reminder of the beauty and power that lies in diversity. This series isn’t just about reimagining royalty; it’s about expanding the idea of what it means to be a queen in Britain, today and for the future.
Credits
Entry Title: Queens
Photographer: Steve Bright
Winning Category: People Photography - Portrait
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