Barclays 7 - 2023
As a socially engaged artist and photographer, collecting oral testimonies that sit alongside my portraiture, forms a significant part of my creative work.
Oral testimonies provide a valuable means of preserving and documenting the personal experiences and perspectives of individuals. They create a vivid and authentic record of historical events, social conditions, cultural practices, and personal narratives that might otherwise be lost or forgotten. They enable us to gain access to voices and stories that are often marginalised or overlooked in traditional written records offering insights into the lived experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who may have been historically oppressed or underrepresented.
They also offer a unique opportunity for intergenerational dialogue and learning. They allow older generations to pass on their knowledge, wisdom, and experiences to younger generations, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage and collective memory. Oral testimonies provide a valuable platform for intergenerational exchange and the transmission of oral traditions, customs, and values.
Furthermore, oral testimonies contribute to the democratisation of history. They empower individuals to tell their own stories, allowing for a more inclusive and pluralistic narrative. By amplifying diverse perspectives, oral testimonies challenge dominant narratives and encourage critical examination of historical events and societal structures. They also have the power to foster empathy and human connection. Through the power of storytelling, oral testimonies can bridge gaps in understanding and create a sense of shared humanity.
Extinction Rebellion - The Big One 21st to 24th April 2023
A four day Extinction Rebellion coordinated action, bringing people from many groups and movements together, to protest outside the House of Parliament.
I interviewed women attendees; from those newly involved in the movement, to veteran protesters, to ask why they were there, their views on the climate crisis, and women's roles in mass protest movements.
