For Retrograde, Ryan Calais Cameron’s powerful new play inspired by a pivotal moment in Sidney Poitier’s early career, I was asked to develop key art concepts exploring ambition, identity and the cost of success in 1950s Hollywood.

Set during the so-called Golden Age of Hollywood, the story centres on Poitier being offered a lucrative studio contract that could transform his career — but only at the expense of compromising who he is and what he stands for.

The creative challenge was to capture that tension in a single image: the promise and glamour of Hollywood set against the pressure, prejudice and personal sacrifice behind it. The work explored a defining moment in a career that would go on to break barriers, challenge perceptions and cement Poitier’s legacy as one of cinema’s most important figures.

Directed by Amit Sharma, the production examines not just stardom, but the resilience and integrity required to reach it.

I was delighted and genuinely humbled to be given the opportunity to contribute to a project centred on such an important moment in the life and legacy of Sidney Poitier.

Key Art · Art Direction · Concept Development · Campaign Design · Image Making