Take an immersive journey that challenges you to rethink what you know about migration via a series interventions that form Migration: a human story. This project is the culmination of a two year collaboration with a Community Programme Team made up of individuals whose lives have been shaped by migration.
Passport Trail
Designed for all visitors, but particularly with families in mind, you are challenged to step into the shoes of a refugee, asylum seeker or economic migrant. Just as in real life the choice is not yours to make, with your fate determined in this case by the spin of a wheel. The twists and turns are the real stories and experiences of those whose footsteps you are following and your passport includes activities to help you further explore the narratives revealed.
This free interactive activity starts outside Main Gallery One and is aimed for children aged 9+ to follow with their families.
Animations
Three incredibly strong animations, found at locations throughout Main Gallery One and Main Gallery Two illuminate the stories of those sharing their recollections of migration; their words set to beautiful illustrations.
The Journey We Made Across Land And Sea, To Build A Country Not Made For Me banner (2021)
Now part of the 2022 Banner Exhibition, this banner was commissioned by the Community Programme Team, who wanted to create a ‘fake trade union banner’ to subvert the classical ideals traditionally seen in PHM’s collection. The work of artist Seleena Laverne Daye, it is designed to give a voice to migrants; visually representing those working in care, hospitality, agriculture and textiles.
New interpretation
New interpretation throughout Main Gallery One and Main Gallery Two highlights historical and contemporary migration stories that are filled with personal insights. Addressing an absence of migration narratives across PHM’s displays, the newly commissioned work is now a permanent feature.
Updated Battle for the Ballot timeline
In the atrium of People’s History Museum a vast mind map depicts how the vote was won for all. Battle for the Ballot was created when the museum opened in its new building in 2010 and spans the period from the mid 17th century to the Representation of the People Act (1948). The Community Programme Team has looked at this and created a new timeline that presents a fuller view of these complex histories. Presented as Migration: a human story, this can be seen in the Changing Exhibition Gallery. Visitors are invited to add their own personal history or comments to keep the timeline fresh and alive.
With support from Art Fund and The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust.
Family Friendly interventions, suitable for all ages.
Please check museum opening times.
Please note the animations in this project contain descriptions of traumatic migration experiences that some visitors may find distressing. Stories covered include experiences of modern day slavery, seeking asylum on the basis of sexuality, and lived experience of a refugee camp and the resettlement process.
Part of PHM’s programme exploring migration, co-created by a Community Programme Team made up of people whose lives have been shaped by migration.
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