We are thrilled to extend huge congratulations to artist Harold Offeh on his first major UK retrospective, ‘Mmm Gotta Try a Little Harder, It Could Be Sweet’, now open at Kettle’s Yard until 1 March 2026.
It was a privilege to join Harold and artist Sonia Boyce for the opening celebration. We reflect on this milestone with a deep sense of pride, having been part of Harold’s artistic journey through our collaborative project, ‘Let’s Talk About Chemsex’.
This powerful two-year project, which launched at Manchester Pride 2023, explores vital themes of intimacy, desire, and consent within the LGBTQ+ recovery community.
The Evolution of ‘Let’s Talk About Chemsex’
Workshop Series
From March to May 2024, the project evolved into a series of workshops hosted at Manchester Art Gallery. Led by Harold Offeh and collaborators Niall O’Conghaile and artist Jak Skot, and facilitated by Brighter Sound, these sessions provided a safe, inclusive environment for participants to explore themes of queer intimacy and consent. Through writing, drawing, and performance, attendees channeled their experiences into the co-creation of two original music tracks.
The Listening Party and Vinyl Release
In September 2024, the groups’ album was ready for release. At an extra special Listening Party in at Manchester Art Gallery, we publicly released the two co-created singles. Attendees immersed themselves in the music in a relaxed, lounge-like setting, connecting deeply with the tracks’ narratives.
The songs, ‘Anticipation = Anxiety’ and ‘A Warm Hug’, are now available as a special limited edition vinyl, designed by Harold Offeh himself.
Listen and purchase the limited edition vinyl on Bandcamp here.
Let’s Talk About Chemsex: A Queer Gallery Takeover
As a highlight of Recoverist Month 2024, we hosted a Queer Gallery Takeover at Manchester Art Gallery. This day-long celebration amplified queer recovery voices and perspectives, featuring live performances, discussions, and art installations by a brilliant roster of local and international LGBTQ+ artists, including:
- Valentin Ranger
- Ghetto Fabulous
- mandla
- Daniel Rey
- Sam Cottington
The takeover created a vibrant space for collective expression and dialogue.
Harold Offeh’s practice is a testament to the power of collaboration and the exploration of complex social histories.
Head to Kettle’s Yard to find out more about Harold and his work.