Chew the Phat – Cities Without Houses
The event at SoHo House Birmingham, co-hosted with PHORM under the “Cities Without Houses” initiative, was a unique reflection on the intersection of art, culture, and personal narratives. Titled “Chew the Phat,” it served as a platform to not only pay homage to the late Benjamin Zephaniah but also to spotlight the creative journey of his brother, David O Springer (aka DOS), a distinguished screen printer and print pioneer.
The intimate setting at Minima allowed for an engaging and personal dialogue where Dave shared the stage, offering attendees a retrospective glimpse into some of his favourite T-shirts, printed over the years, alongside Benjamin's iconic works. Each piece on display carried stories of a shared passion for the crafts that defined our lives—culture and screen printing. From these stories, a common thread emerged: the power of art to challenge, resist, and inspire. These T-shirts were more than just garments; they were bold statements, each infused with political and social undertones, much like Benjamin's poetry.
With a vibrant audience that included creatives, artists, and local visionaries, "Chew the Phat" wasn’t just a nostalgic look back, but a meaningful celebration of the continued relevance of our work. As the night drew to a close, the impact of our discussion echoed—reinforcing the idea that the art we create and the stories we tell have the power to inspire future generations.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, March 7th, 2024
Time: 16:00
Location: Minima
Photography By: Crumb Creative
