In previous episodes of Unlawful Killing, we’ve heard and talked about loved ones who have died at the hands of the state, but rarely do we actually get to hear from those who have died.

These people were also poets, musicians, artists and writers. After digging out some incredible material from INQUEST’s archives, we’d like to remember these artists by sharing some of their work. 

As there’s so much in the archives, we only have enough time to talk about a few of the works, including art from Smiley Culture, Emily Hartley, Agnes McDonald, Matty Sheldrick, Jimmy Heather-Hayes, and Joe Black.

All these artists are from different parts of the country, different ages, making art in different decades and at different life stages but what unites these artistic voices is the fact that they’ve each died at the hands of the state.

'Police Officer', Smiley Culture © Fashion Records

Embalmed (w1b0's Alternative Method of Preservation) © Nexus 23

Transform (Beatprozessor's Dirty Bass Transform) © Nexus 23

Thanks to Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Bundey and Alfie Neill for their readings.

Find out more about the artists featured:

Smiley Culture – NTS Radio Page

Matty Sheldrick’s website - www.mattyzak.com

Joe Black’s Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/nexus23

Jim Heather-Hayes - https://history.inquest.org.uk/case-profiles/jim-heather-hayes/

Emily Hartley - https://history.inquest.org.uk/case-profiles/emily-hartley/

Agnes McDonald - https://www.inquest.org.uk/agnes-mcdonald-conclusion

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