"Dig Where You Stand isn’t about kings and queens but ordinary people who end up in the archives as fragments of a will, notice in a newspaper, play bills or a baptismal record.” – Désirée Reynolds
Dig Where You Stand is an archival justice movement made up of artists, archivists, educators and local community members. It unearths the untold stories of people of colour who have lived, worked and put down roots in South Yorkshire over hundreds of years. The project's members explore archival records and reimagine the lives contained within them through creative practices. They then share these stories in public exhibitions, screenings and events.
To celebrate their huge two-year grant from National Lottery Heritage Fund, join the project members for a launch event this June. You'll find out more about the new Dig Where You Stand programme, which includes:
- 10 new commissions for artists of colour living or based in South Yorkshire
- Public exhibition in 2024 with live presentations, performances and activities
- 12 month training programme for women of colour interested in exploring local archives
- Educational resources for schools and community groups
- One off online events, creative writing workshops and discussion panels
- Study guides and open access DWYS website
The team particularly encourage artists to come along and find out more about the commission opportunities available.
Dig Where You Stand was originated by artist and activist Désirée Reynolds – find out more about Désirée in her interview from our Meet the Locals archive. Désirée is working with the Centre for Equity & Inclusion and Sheffield City Archives on this next phase of the project.
This event will take place at the Creative Lounge within the Workstation. It's on the ground floor, to the left of reception, and is wheelchair accessible. If you have any particular accessibility questions or needs please contact digwhereyoustand.sy@gmail.com.
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