Afroflux are back with min-convention Fluxcon, curated by Birmingham multi-disciplinary artist Juice Aleem!
Mixing visual arts, cosplay, creativity, workshops, film screening, talks, movement, science and a marketplace, celebrating the radical imagination of Black and Brown communities locally and worldwide. This year the marketplace moves outside to Thorp Street, making space for innovation and Black creative businesses in public space.
Workshops will take place across Thorp Street and our studio spaces. They will include:
Hip Hop Screen Printing with DOS – FREE
Come and join DOS as he brings you into the world of design and print, making a Hip Hop inspired t-shirt using screen printing techniques.
Drop-in workshop, limited number of t-shirts so get there early!
Suitable for ages 10 and up.
Neo-Mmanwu Mask Making Workshop with Florence Okoye
Join Florence Okoye for a drop-in mask making workshop that explores the role of masquerades in West African culture.
Inspired by the Igbo masquerade, or mmanwu “Neo-mmanwu”” reimagines the masquerade as a symbol for the African diaspora and community-driven speculative design. This workshop will encourage collaboration using both cultural inspiration and creative design thinking to dream up and create ideas for a better future.
Drop-in workshops open to all skill levels. Bring and contribute your own knowledge and creative skills!
King Otaku Gaming
King Otaku Gaming will provide your gaming needs during the day of Fluxcon
Head to The Atrium if you feel the urge for a bit of beat-em-up energy with Otaku’s comps in Tekken, Streetfighter and the like. Or even get chilled out in the many worlds of VR / AR.
Film Pardna with Solomon Singh Smith
Join filmmaker Solomon Singh Smith for an exciting “”Film in a Day”” workshop, inspired by the Film Pardna practice. In this two-hour session, we’ll create a short film centred around the ten-year anniversary of the B-SIDE Hip Hop Festival.
From brainstorming and storyboarding to shooting the final scenes, you’ll experience the entire filmmaking process in one day.
No prior filmmaking experience is required—just bring your passion for storytelling! The finished film will be edited and made available online a few days after the event.
Limited to 10 participants.
Wavey Lines – Life Drawing Session
For this Wavey Lines life drawing special Sarah will be providing the shapes to inspire our sketching in real time. Life drawing is not only how good artists become great ones but also a perfect place to experiment with styles among a group of fellow adventuers into art. Life drawing is for all.
Basic art utensils will be provided but feel free to also bring your own!
Suitable for ages 12 and up.
Interactive Comic Talk with Sara Kenney
Join comics creator Sara Kenney (writer) as she explores the classic “Hero’s Journey” story structure and discusses the alternative models she considered for her new comic, ACID BOX—a time-travel adventure through 1990s dance culture. Afterward, we’ll collaborate as a group to experiment with storytelling structures such as the Heroine’s Journey, Collective Journey, or the Science of Storytelling to craft our own unique narrative.
Stunts and Filmaking with Phillip Ray Tommy
Phillip Ray Tommy will share insights from his two-decade career in the film industry, offering a unique perspective on his experiences. The session will include a screening of Cain and Abel, his first short film made over 10 years ago, followed by an exclusive sneak peek of his current project, Lotus.
The session will also feature a brief workshop where Philip will discuss filmmaking and stunt work, providing aspiring filmmakers and actors (ages 10 and over) with valuable tips and hands-on knowledge about the craft.
A History of Diversity and Representaton in Comic with Bobby Joseph
Comics Laureate Bobby Joseph will explore the representation of diverse characters in comic books over the past century. He will examine how these often-controversial stories featuring people of colour have evolved to reflect societal issues and discuss why it’s now crucial for diverse voices to take control of their own narratives.
Groove & Grow: A Hip Hop Festival Invitation with Paulette Hakeem
“Are you ready to move? To feel the rhythm in your soul?”
Join Paulette Hakeen for a special celebration of music, movement and unadulteted joy with a lively line dancing workshop! Feel the vibe as hip hop beats, soulful melodies, reggae rhythms, and a hint of country twang come together to create a truly unique atmosphere.
Never line danced before. No problem! Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to have fun, this event is open to all. No partner needed—just come ready to move, groove, and enjoy the music!
Screen Combat & Monster Movement with Jake Nwogu
Stage & Screen Combat
Fight like your favourite action hero, super spy, or video game assassin! This high-energy session brings action sequences to life with cinematic fight choreography for stage and screen. You’ll learn the fundamentals of stage combat, including how to perform precise, powerful, and safe fight sequences while maintaining character.
Learn essential techniques for strikes, reactions, and falls, giving you the skills to move with confidence and intensity in any action role.
Monster Movement
Unleash your inner beast! Explore the art of embodying monstrous characters through movement. Tap into your primal instincts, learning how to move like creatures from another world. Let your imagination run wild as you bring monsters to life through dynamic and powerful movement techniques.
Open to all levels – no prior experience required! Wear comfortable clothing, and don’t forget a towel and water bottle to stay hydrated during the session.
African Dance and Capoeria Workshop with Ronke and Denise
An energising movement workshop blending Capoeira, Maculelê and African dance led by Ronke and Denise. The session explores rhythm, resistance, and connection through African-Brazilian martial arts and dance. Expect music, movement, and good vibes.