Since 2022, Afrocats has joined forces with The Whitworth to build creative arts and movement sessions with global majority roots for both young and old over the half-term holidays for families across Manchester.
This time, the main theme was inspired by Thai artist Jakkai Siributr's ‘There’s no Place' embroidery exhibition – the creation of a stirring dialogue between between the artist, the community of Koung Jor Shan Refugee Camp, and participants and viewers from around the globe.
The Whitworth’s Families and Early Years Producer Lucy Turner said:
'We aim to bring in new audiences, and make everyone feel welcome.'
All who came through the Whitworth’s doors indeed stepped right into a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where the beat of Zimbabwean drums and joyous creative movement commanded everyone’s attention downstairs throughout the ground floor - press 'play' below for what you can expect on your next visit!
Meanwhile, imaginations ran wild upstairs with families creating collaborative banners from t-shirts, hats, and collages spanning the theme of ‘home.’
Whether current dwelling, dream house, or somewhere else entirely, young people, parents, and even volunteers got stuck in with creative expression through mixed media inspired by Jakkai, one of South-east Asia's leading contemporary artists.
'I want to see people happy and give them an invaluable connection with place and memories!'
-Lubna Tahir, Manchester-based artist
Artist Lubna was on hand to support everyone in the Everyday Art School, helping bring everyone’s ideas to life.
A fourth-generation artist originally hailing from Pakistan, Lubna has made a huge splash across her adopted city with her artwork since she moved to the UK in 2016, holding her own classes in North Manchester, and seeing her work put proudly on display at Manchester Art Gallery.
So what did she want to achieve today with her collage workshop?
'I want to see people happy and give them an invaluable connection with place and memories - I want to give them the best memories during their time here.'
You certainly did, Lubna!
Take a look at the team's smiling faces below - that's how you know it was a job well done.
And see you in May for more holiday happiness at The Whitworth.
Visit The Whitworth website to find out about Jakkai Siributr’s exhibition ‘There’s no Place’ at The Whitworth by – on display until 16 March 2025.
And read about how our February Whitworth collaboration went for our volunteers here.
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