The arrival of the ship HMT Empire Windrush at Tilbury docks on 22 June 1948, bringing 802 passengers from the Caribbean, is a moment that shaped modern Britain.

Hampshire Cultural Trust is proud to partner with the Basingstoke Caribbean Society and Friends, and Cultural Diversity Consortium, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of this significant national event in an exhibition that explores the journeys and the challenges the passengers faced starting new lives, recognising the contributions of the Windrush generation who have lived, worked and raised families in Basingstoke.

The Windrush generation comprises 500,000 Commonwealth citizens who settled in Britain between 1948 and 1971. Having been invited to help rebuild the nation after the Second World War, they played an essential role in key fields such as nursing, transportation, construction, and both military and civil service. Through the voices of Basingstoke’s British Caribbean community, we celebrate the vibrant cultural tapestry of the borough, showcasing Caribbean culture and a legacy of community and faith, of hope and resilience, and how Basingstoke became a place of sanctuary. 

This exhibition features a special photographic commission by Tamsyn Warde and an immersive soundscape by composer Thomas Baynes, Chalkstream Productions Ltd. The exhibition also includes artworks on loan: Sabine Kaner's incredible hand stitched, embroidery, 'When the Boat Comes In', 2021 and Stacey Leigh Ross's painting, 'WindFall RushOut', 2018. 

Image credits: Rosie Williams, Sabine Kaner, Stacey Leigh Ross

 

  • Rosie Williams Artwork: Our Windrush Story
  • Sabine Kaner, When The Boat Comes In, 2021
  • Stacey Leigh Ross, WindFall RushOut, 2018
  • View of national Windrush story in situ
  • View of Basingstoke story in situ
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