As Bulgarian born and raised, move to the UK in 2017, just a year after the Brexit decision, I feel very passionately about the importance and the influence that immigrants have on British culture. Not only is this historical event an economical and political issue, it is an interpersonal one. The idea that an immigrant, a person who have legally moved to another piece of land on Earth, is nationally unwanted and almost frowned upon once seen on the streets, is very dehumanising. As a country built on colonialism and “foreign” cultures and traditions, I believe it is hard to to define British as separate from the “foreign”. We are all connected and we all have a right to be here.
There are, supposedly, 270 nationalities and 300 languages spoken in London. The voices of generations of immigrants are so important to the cultural richness of the city.
Inspired by the V&A’s current work of X-raying historical paintings from their exhibitions and collections, I propose a multi-layered artwork with the help of North London schools. This new technology and method of studying old artworks allows for people to get a glimpse into the artist’s lifestyle, emotions and thoughts at the time of creating, and the attitude art collectors used to have towards pieces. Many would alter works and cover up parts they dislike themselves, something which would be considered extremely disrespectful now.
Looking specifically at stories that children from immigrant families have been told by their relatives about their personal history, each individual canvas would contain a painting, made by the children, based on stories and moments they know about their ancestors.
Looking specifically at stories that children from immigrant families have been told by their relatives about their personal history, each individual canvas would contain a painting, made by the children, based on stories and moments they know about their ancestors.
Once all layers are finished, they would be placed one in front of the other, with an old painting of London from the V&A’s archives at the very front. Through a back light, when viewed from the front, all images would be combined into one unique painting (as shown as an example on the drawing on the right). The idea is that all these personal stories would become almost a shadow behind the image of London, highlighting their importance to the town’s narrative and history.
We are all part of the beautiful diversity and rich culture of London, and we have stories to tell.
