Spotlight on Tariq Ali
3 December 2024
Tariq Ali is a decolonial anthropologist and researcher whose work is transforming how we understand visual history and its effect in present day thinking. Based in Devonport, he is a passionate advocate for using the power of film to reshape narratives around race, identity and history. He also works as an ambassador for the School of Society and Culture at the University of Plymouth.
Tariq’s approach: Decolonising storytelling
Tariq brings a wealth of knowledge in Film History and Critical Race Theory to his work with The Box. His research aims to dismantle colonial frameworks and dehumanising visual cultures that have long dominated film archives. Through his research commission his ambition is to contribute to a grassroots movement alongside fellow Black educators, community members and activists.
Tariq’s work is about more than simply highlighting the histories of discrimination and vulnerability. While acknowledging these challenges, he focuses on the successes and resilience that have emerged from them. His contributions are crucial to the ongoing work of rethinking how we record, categorise and interpret the stories within film archives.
Creating legacies: A lasting impact
Tariq’s research is part of Reimagining the Film Archive (RtFA) a three year transformative programme that aims to reshape how we engage with archival moving images. Rather than viewing these images solely as historical documents, Tariq and our other further RtFA commissions approach them as living, evolving narratives. This shift in perspective allows us to reinterpret these films in ways that reflect a broader, more inclusive range of experiences and identities.
Tariq’s research is not just about uncovering hidden narratives; it’s about creating legacies for the future. His role in recording, categorising and publishing his findings will significantly impact how we view ourselves on film and how future generations will access and engage with these materials.
His work, alongside other researchers in the Reimagining the Film Archive programme, is a vital part of the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive and diverse archive.
Discover more
- Find out more about Reimagining the Film Archive, our three-year programme (2023–2026) supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the BFI Screen Heritage Fund.
- Don't miss our spotlight on Claire Kayes, the first recipient of our 2025 research commissions. Her work, also featured in the RtFA programme, promises to further enrich our understanding of these important collections.