One of only four live-size crocheted pieces created by Su Richardson, Travelling Man with Bag (1979/80) is what she refers to as a “male skin”, in reference to her 1978 work Underwear Skin Sale. The work was based on conversations with a very attractive black male friend, who was tired of being liked solely for his appearance and his desire to just “take [his skin] off.” The figure is sticking his tongue out at the world, expressing his disgust and anger, while a bag is positioned at his side, offering a vehicle to roll himself up and run away. The work explores the broader implications around the shared objectifications of white women and black men (and women).

Richardson was a key member of the British feminist movement of the 1970s, involved in Fenix and the postal project, ‘Feministo’, which culminated in a major exhibition at London’s ICA in 1977.