Discover Finding Our Way!

Researchers at Oxford University and at Oxford Brookes have collaborated with Euton Daley from Unlock the Chains Collective to create an incredible research project. Finding Our Way explores the African-Caribbean experience in Oxford through captivating performances, envisioning new ways to create and inhabit archives. As part of 'Finding our way', Foundation Art students from Oxford Brookes worked with Euton Daley, Rachel Barbaresi and the project team to develop creative responses to the research.

One fascinating element is the tunic, part of a series of 'wearable archives' designed by the artist and lecturer Rachel Barbaresi from Oxford Brookes. This trail brings together post-war tourist ephemera, highlighting the stark contrast between the challenges faced by Oxford's Windrush generation, the barriers they encountered, and the absence of archival records documenting their experiences.

Rachel Barbaresi provides an insightful overview of the two narratives presented at the Finding Our Way exhibition in the Fusion Arts Window Galleries. The first narrative centers around the wearable archive and trail, initially created for a performance at the Ashmolean museum. It sheds light on the absence of the African Caribbean community in Oxford's maps and archives, juxtaposed with the abundance of tourist-focused materials. During the museum procession, visitors pass by the chantry wall featuring busts of white men associated with empire and slavery, as well as the thought-provoking 'nice cup of tea' exhibition.

The second narrative emerges from an inspiring workshop led by Euton, where students engaged in discussions about barriers, obstacles, and being overlooked. Echoing the wearable archive concept, these talented students crafted their own wearables and delivered a powerful performance inspired by one of Euton's poems.

These intertwined narratives highlight the importance of representation, challenging prevailing narratives, and amplifying marginalized voices. Through sharing untold stories and experiences, we aim to bring about change and recognition.