30 October 2023 , 16:18
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A 33ft wire frame installation of HMT Empire Windrush has been revealed to mark the end of Black History Month. The sculpture, unveiled by TV presenter Scarlette Douglas, has been erected at Tilbury Docks – the port where the ship first docked 75 years ago, in 1948.
It has been created to celebrate the contribution made by Windrush pioneers and their families across the UK, highlighting the crucial role they played in the rebuild following the Second World War.
The structure, created by Liam Hopkins of Lazerian Studio, in collaboration with abstract artist and creative designer Jade Pearl, features portraits of five individuals who have done incredible things to celebrate the Windrush generation and its impact on their communities.
Created with the help of funding from The National Lottery, the structure stands nearly 12ft in height and weighs 600kg, and took more than six weeks to build – as it is made entirely from steel wire.
Portraits of pivotal individuals, from projects featured in the installation, include FAM Fest, the Thelma Matilda Alves Foundation, MENFA, Windrush: The Story Continues, and Show Racism the Red Card.
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These are to celebrate these projects providing support for the mental wellbeing of descendants from the Windrush generation, as well as mentoring and education within schools, strengthening bonds between generations, and the music and food originating from this community.
The installation was built at London's Tilbury Docks, where the ship first made port 75 years ago, in 1948 (PinPep)So far this year, The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK, has awarded more than £1.2 million of funding to 140 community groups across the UK commemorating Windrush 75, with more investment to come.
Scarlette Douglas, who has personal links to the Windrush generation, said: “The impact and contribution the Windrush generation has had in Britain since they first arrived in 1948 has been phenomenal, and it’s vital that we recognise and honour the achievements of their legacy.
“As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Windrush, the importance of funding for our vibrant community groups has never been greater.
“These organisations are the backbone of so many communities, preserving our heritage and culture, and providing support to the Windrush Generation and its descendants.”
The installation, entitled “Life We Hold: A Tribute to Black Britain”, seeks to honour the historical significance of the HMT Empire Windrush, and celebrates the remarkable contributions of black individuals to British society.
From the arts and food, to sport and education, the sculpture aims to be a thought-provoking tribute that engages viewers in a dialogue about unity, resilience, and the indelible legacy of the Windrush pioneers.
David Knott, chief executive of The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “The 75th anniversary of Windrush is a great opportunity to recognise and embrace the endeavours and legacy of Windrush pioneers and their families.
“Communities have chosen many ways in which to mark this historic occasion, and the lasting contribution made to the UK.
“Thanks to their incredible efforts, we are proud to have awarded over £1.2 million across the UK to commemorate Windrush 75 and ensure the legacy lives on.”
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Passengers of the ship, largely from the Caribbean, undertook a variety of jobs including the production of steel, coal, and iron, as well as food, to help rebuild the nation post-World War Two, laying the foundations for British Society as it is today.