A new exhibition titled ‘Archives Can Be Anything’ is being held at the Museum of Croydon, aiming to explore the borough’s rich heritage and the role of archives in shaping historical understanding. This free exhibition runs until May 10 and showcases the creative efforts of ten young individuals aged 14 to 18, known as the Young Archivists.

The Young Archivists have undertaken training in various skills, including archiving, digital techniques, research, and exhibition design over the past year. They engaged in workshops that spanned writing, illustration, design, printmaking, and collage, leading them to produce artwork, zines, films, and poetry influenced by local archival materials.

Their contributions reflect historic documents such as council redevelopment plans, newspaper archives, and photographs, capturing community stories. One notable comic references a 1998 UFO sighting in New Addington, prompting discussions on how the community integrates newcomers. Other pieces address themes of race and racism in Croydon’s archival narratives.

The exhibition, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and part of the Dynamic Collections project, aims to digitally enhance Croydon’s archives. Croydon’s Executive Mayor, Jason Perry, stated that the exhibition highlights local youth creativity and the importance of community projects in fostering opportunities for personal growth and engagement.

The initiative encourages reflection on the past while considering Croydon’s future, illustrating how archives can inspire new generations.

The ‘Archives Can Be Anything’ exhibition at the Museum of Croydon showcases young people’s creativity while highlighting the importance of local archives. Through their diverse artistic contributions, the Young Archivists have revitalised the understanding of Croydon’s heritage, promoting inclusivity and engaging community narratives. The exhibition encourages a dialogue about the past and encourages a forward-looking perspective on the borough’s development.

Original Source: londonnewsonline.co.uk

The post Croydon Exhibition Highlights Young Creatives and Community Archives first appeared on The London Bell.

The Croydon Museum is hosting an exhibition titled ‘Archives Can Be Anything’, aimed at showcasing perspectives on its history through the eyes of local youth. Running from February 26 to May 10, the exhibition features creative works by ten young people, aged 14 to 18, known as the Young Archivists. This initiative is part of the Dynamic Collections project, with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, celebrating Croydon’s status as the London Borough of Culture 2023.

Over the past year, the Young Archivists underwent training in archiving, digital skills, and project management, participating in creative workshops such as writing, illustration, and printmaking. They created various artistic pieces, including zines, films, and poetry, each inspired by Croydon’s archives, which house historical documents, newspaper articles, and community records. One notable artwork features a comic that depicts an alien landing in Croydon, prompting reflections on how the borough welcomes newcomers.

Another artwork is a mixed-media portrait highlighting an important figure from Croydon’s Global Majority population, integrating narratives of race and racism found within the archives. Additionally, an illustrated manifesto, inspired by archival maps, presents a youth-led vision of the borough’s future. Randal, a 19-year-old Young Archivist, shared his inspiration from a 1998 article about UFO sightings in New Addington, expressing that the project revealed Croydon’s diversity and unity.

Croydon’s executive mayor, Jason Perry, emphasized that the exhibition showcases the creativity of young residents and reflects the community’s commitment to empowering children and youth through engagement in meaningful projects.

The ‘Archives Can Be Anything’ exhibition at the Croydon Museum highlights young people’s insights into local history and culture. Through their creative works, the Young Archivists celebrate diversity, community engagement, and a vision for the future. The exhibition underlines Croydon’s commitment to fostering opportunities for its youth and preserving the borough’s rich history.

Original Source: www.thisislocallondon.co.uk

The post Croydon Museum Exhibition Showcases Youth Perspectives on Local History first appeared on The London Bell.