Geno Washington Exhibition

This ‘Black USAF’ (USAF is the acronym for United States Air Force) exhibition at County Library in Ipswich town centre celebrates former American airman and music icon Geno Washington at Ipswich Central Library between 21 October and 17 November 2025.

It’s a mini exhibition showcasing five striking portrait photographs of soul music legend Geno Washington, taken by Suffolk-based photographer John Ferguson.

The display is part of the Black USAF: Cultural Connections in Cold War East Anglia project — a pioneering, Black-led heritage initiative uncovering the hidden cultural stories of African American US Air Force (USAF) personnel stationed in East Anglia from the 1950s to the 1990s.

The photographs celebrate Geno Washington — a former USAF airman based at RAF Bentwaters — and his enduring connection to the region and its people. Washington’s energetic live shows and soulful charisma made him a household name during the 1960s, influencing generations of British musicians and fans. His career started in the pubs and clubs in Ipswich, illustrating the importance of Suffolk and the wider region to the country’s cultural landscape.

Visitors can listen to Geno tell his own story via a QR code as part of the exhibition.

Inspired by her own childhood experiences and stories from older family members, Black USAF is led by national award-winning engagement consultant and cultural producer, Elma Glasgow. The project also champions the importance of authentic storytelling of Global Majority cultures.

Funded by Arts Council England through its National Lottery Project Grant programme, and the Essex Cultural Diversity Project. The project explores how African American airmen contributed to the cultural fabric of East Anglia, from music and nightlife to community relationships and local identity — stories that have remained largely undocumented until now.

Ipswich Central Library can be found in Northgate Street, Ipswich IP1 3DE and admission is free. 

For more information follow @projectlbackusaf on Instagram and Facebook.

The QR code to Geno’s audio story can also be found here: www.blackusaf.org/genowashington