Karl Ohiri, Three Lions: A Portrait of Benjamin Odeje

To celebrate multi-culturalism and the new sporting season, Karl Ohiri’s photograph Three Lions: A Portrait of Benjamin Odeje (2014) will be presented at New Art Exchange throughout the World Cup. Through his photography, Ohiri tells the story of Benjamin Odeje, the first black footballer on the English team, whose talent and courage paved the way for players today.

The portrait tells a story of how the determined footballer triumphed over a barrage of racial abuse and disapproval from his family. His significant achievements reflect the current English football squad; a representation of the culturally diverse nature of the nation.