We have two exhibitions and collaborations planned for Refugee Week this June:

1. We Cannot Walk Alone – An interactive journey of learning to celebrate Refugee Week 2021.

Join Sanctuary in Chichester and Children on the Edge for an immersive experience for all ages, offering insight into life for refugees both abroad and here in Chichester, how they enrich the communities they journey to, and how you can get involved.

• 18th – 20th JUNE
• OPEN 12.00 NOON – 17.00 – FREE ENTRY
• 104 THE HORNET, CHICHESTER, PO19 7LR

Includes special screening of multi award winning film ‘For Sama’, 19th June – 19:00, followed by a short talk by Roger Pask. Refreshments will be available, served by our wonderful drop-in team, including English sparkling wine, generously donated by the Wiston Estate. For Sama tickets – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/screening-of-for-sama-tickets-155939291619

With thanks to Revelation Church for inviting us to create the exhibtion and run the screening in their beautiful new building.

Map reference for ONE • O • FOUR  – http://bit.ly/104TheHornet

2. Tears of Joy – an exhibition of artworks created by young asylum seekers and refugees from across the Chichester District, presented at Chichester Cathedral from 14^th – 21^st June to mark Refugee Week 2021. 

Developed by Article 12 Arts in collaboration with Sanctuary in Chichester, the exhibition aims to provide the young artists with an opportunity to creatively express themselves, develop artistic skills and to voice their experiences. The artworks will also help draw attention to the plight of these young refugees, providing insight into what brings each of them joy.

Founders of Article 12 Arts, Caroline Sharman-Mendoza and Kate Viner, said:

“Addressing cultural barriers, celebrating the diversity of our communities and improving community integration are the main aims of this project. Article 12 Arts use creative expression to help young refugees feel they have something of value to contribute to their new communities, empower them to communicate the wisdom and knowledge gained through their experiences to benefit the community and enhance mutual respect and understanding.”

Gemma Driver, Sanctuary in Chichester, said:

“I know that being a part of Article 12 Arts has meant a lot to some of the young people we support, especially during the isolation of lockdowns. It is wonderful that they now have this opportunity to exhibit their work in the incredible surroundings of the Chichester Cathedral, and that we can all enjoy their colourful, joyous creations.” 

As part of the exhibition, Article 12 Arts will be holding two textiles masterclass workshops on Saturday 19^th June, provided by leading fashion designer Rene Macdonald and costume designer/textile artist Caroline Pitcher. There are limited places available to the public, and all profits from ticket sales will go back into the work of Article 12 Arts – book the morning session here, and the afternoon one here.

Tears of Joy is open to the public – free entry – from 14^th to 20^th June 2021 10am – 4pm and 12 – 2pm 21st June, and is part of this year’s Festival of Chichester programme of events.