National Trust
The National Trust approached GottaBe! Ethnic following the launch of their Everyone Welcome Programme. The Programme looks to create and change their spaces and properties to ensure they’re accessible for everyone, forever. Through this, the Trust will continue to raise awareness of the diverse and inclusive history found within the UK, which has not been represented over the years. To reach audiences who may not have ever associated themselves with the National Trust, they sought our expertise in reaching the 9.3 million ethnic minorities across the UK. Together we discussed the most effective ways to reach these communities authentically.
It was important to the Trust that the work we carried out not be seen as tokenistic. Therefore, the first objective was to create a piece which would engage audiences during Black History Month. We think it is important to highlight that the work done with the National Trust for Black History Month is just the start, and they are working hard to increase equity, diversity and inclusion. It does not stop here.
Our work for Black History Month began when a painting by Richmond Barthé was discovered in the Trust’s collection at Belton House, Lincolnshire. For years ‘The Seated Man’ had been miss archived until it was recently attributed to the African American artists Richmond Barthé. This sparked research into his life and how this incredible work of art had ended up within the Trusts collection. Barthé’s story was inspiring, and the Trust knew his story had to be told.
‘Inspired by Barthé’ was created, to tell untold stories of both historical and contemporary Black artists. The short documentary-style film was, narrated by DJ and presenter Trevor Nelson.
To launch ‘Inspired by Barthé’ and to open up those conversations, GottaBe! Ethnic organised the film screening in London on the 19th of October. This event saw creatives, Trustees and media all in one space and sparked conversations that helped implement change.
Throughout the project, there were many different directions discussed and decisions made to ensure that this piece would have the desired effect. But one thing we knew for sure was that it was only right that a Black-led production company told the story of Barthé, and the contemporary artists were hand-picked for the campaign.
As an ethnic marketing agency, we understand the importance of collaboration to ensure audiences are authentically engaged. The collaboration between Media Worx (production company), The National Trust, and the GottaBe! the team was open. Creative control was handed over to the production experts as it was important to all parties to ensure that Barthé's story was told in a way which would resonate with audiences and that the link with current artists could continue to inspire.
After the initial briefing meetings and concept development, we headed to Lincolnshire to begin filming and see the ‘Seated Man’ in person. The incredible artists all travelled to the house to see the painting and to start the discussion about the importance of including the work of black artists in society. The filming then continued at the artist's studios in the following days.
GottaBe! Ethnic continued to ensure that the event which would launch the film would be a night to remember—linking in with the documentary's theme, we specifically shortlisted locations suitable for the National Trust to hold the film screening.
Once they approved the location, the team arranged the final details and secured any additional features with external suppliers. GottaBe! and the National Trust team constantly communicated throughout the campaign. As we like to say, we really do become an extension of your team and are here to support you whenever you need us.
Alongside the production and event management, GottaBe! Ethnic also connected the Trust with media publications, including Pride and The Voice. By connecting with the target audience of these publications, the National Trust were able to reach new audiences with appropriate materials directly.
It was an honour to work with an organisation so rich in history to assist them by uncovering diverse stories often left untold. Both the event and the documentary were well received by all. The tale of Barthé can be found on the National Trust’s site alongside other stories from historical Black figures who shaped society today.
Newspaper advertorial
Online editorial
Short feature film
Event planning
Film screening