Windrush – A Voyage through the Generations
Lambeth Council is presenting a free photography exhibition called ‘Windrush: A Voyage through the Generations’ by Jim Grover. It opens at Clapham Library on June 1.
Exploring the Windrush Generation
This exhibition explores how the descendants of the Windrush Generation live in the UK today. It invites discussions on how they pass down traditions and maintain heritage. It also focuses on intergenerational exchanges.
Many locals from Clapham feature in the exhibition. This reflects the area’s unique link to the Windrush Generation. When the Empire Windrush arrived on June 22, 1948, many newcomers spent their first month in lodgings under Clapham South Tube station. This marked the beginning of Windrush history.
The exhibition includes 70 color photographs. It features nine themed photo stories narrated with text and images. These stories highlight individuals, groups, and organizations in South London. They work together to preserve Caribbean heritage and traditions for future generations.
Community Reflections
Cllr Jacqui Dyer, Lambeth’s Cabinet lead for Inclusive Economy and Equalities, expressed pride in hosting this exhibition as part of Windrush 75 celebrations. She encourages locals to visit and engage with the exhibition and other activities this month. For more information, visit lambethwindrush.com/windrush-voices.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition opens with a photo-story of 97-year-old Alford Gardner. He is one of the two remaining adult passengers from the 1948 voyage. The exhibition also showcases Brixton’s remembrance ceremonies at the African Caribbean War Memorial. It features the all-female dominoes team The Diamonds. Additionally, it highlights the Brixton Immortals Domino Club introducing dominoes to children in collaboration with Lambeth Council.
Exhibition Details
‘Windrush: A Voyage through the Generations’ will be on display from June 1 to September 2. If you cannot visit in person, check out content from the exhibition on windrushvoyagethroughthegenerations.com. A companion book will be available in print and as a downloadable PDF from June 1.
Curatorial Work
Katy Barron, Chair of the Board of Photofusion, curated this exhibition. This is her third collaboration with Jim Grover, including the 2018 exhibition ‘Windrush: Portrait of a Generation.’
Importance of the Windrush Generation
Understanding why the Windrush was so important is key. This generation shaped modern British society. It helped rebuild post-war Britain. The question, “What happened to the Windrush Generation when they arrived?” has complex answers. They faced challenges but contributed significantly to the UK’s cultural and economic life. Asking, “Why was it called the Windrush Generation?” reveals the impact of the ship Empire Windrush’s arrival. It symbolizes a significant wave of Caribbean immigrants. So, “What ethnicity is the Windrush Generation?” Primarily, they are of Caribbean origin. This exhibition captures their enduring legacy.
