Digging deeper into the story of James Cumberlidge
In 2025, Black Chiswick through History continued to explore the life of James Cumberlidge, one of the few people of African heritage in Britain whose likeness was captured and preserved for posterity. The project was led by historian Nadege Forde-Vidal and artist Ayesha Weekes, in collaboration with the West London Ghanaian Association.
Building on our 2024 research by digging deeper into archival records, the group uncovered more of James’s fascinating journey from page boy at Chiswick House to trumpeter in the Royal Court of King George III. The project also explored how James’s presence at Chiswick House and the Royal Court provides us with a strong link to other individuals of African heritage in London, and the wider Black British community as a whole.
What they created
With the West London Ghanaian Association at the helm, the group created an animated collage featuring James’s portrait, alongside paintings of other people of African descent who lived in Britain at the time.
The 2025 project also saw an exciting new collaboration with Joy Nkoyo, an award-winning vocalist, songwriter, pianist and young composer with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Working with local young people, Joy led workshops exploring the sounds that may have shaped James’ world, and together created a captivating digital soundscape.
The new information from the project was also added to the Chiswick House Timeline created by students as part of the project’s 2024 cycle.
Feedback and responses
Like previous years, the project was well-received by the participants, facilitators and visitors who reflected on the research and presentation. Many participants in particular were moved by the project and reflected on what it meant for their identities.
The artistic activities were highly engaging and of high quality. Through the workshops and exhibition, participants developed new artistic, digital, and historical research skills. They also gained a deeper understanding of local, national, and global heritage and how these narratives connect.
Ayesha Weekes, Creative Lead
We got lots of new information on the black history in England and added to the timeline… I really enjoyed the fun experience of getting to do historical research and working on it each week.
Feedback from a Chiswick School student
Very inspiring, James story makes me feel proud, so much is hidden very proud we can create an art work to share the history
West London Ghanaian Association member
…I also really enjoyed the work on the timeline. It was really cool.
Visitor feedback
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