‘A Many Textured Thing’ presents the work of photographer duo Kana Alam and Sophia Álvarez Barnes, marking the culmination of their three-month artist residency at St Margaret’s House.
The pair first met over a decade ago at Queen Mary University of London’s Photography Society and hosted their very first social at the Gallery Café, making this exhibition a meaningful return to where their creative collaboration began.
Working under the alias Double Negatif - a project that started as a shared Instagram account to exchange inspiration - they have developed a body of work exploring themes of loss, grief, and fatherhood. The passing of Kana’s stepdad, Andrew, shortly before the residency began, opened up conversations around these themes, which gradually evolved into a broader exploration of loss, including ill health, home, identity, and friendship.
Collaboration has remained central to Double Negatif’s practice throughout the residency. Alongside their own work, they invited other photographers to provide them with creative prompts and launched a photo chain project with the local East London community, asking participants to respond instinctively to an image they received - without context - building a thread of visual responses connected only by emotion and intuition.
The past three months have been a time of connection, experimentation and reflection. We hope the work you see here offers a glimpse into that journey. With heartfelt thanks to Marina Longo, Jenny Lewis, Harry Borden, everyone at St Margaret’s House, and all those who shared their stories and energy with us.
Venue: The Chapel, E2 9PL
Access: We are working to make our Grade II listed building more accessible but it will take some time. If you require access support (including our portable ramps), please get in touch via comms@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Date: Friday 4th July
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm
Tickets: Free (booking is essential)