Immersive Exhibition Explores South Asian Heritage in Coventry

The "Stories That Made Us" exhibition at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in Coventry, curated by Hardish Virk, immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of South Asian heritage. The exhibition recreates Virk's childhood home, featuring personal artifacts, photographs, and oral histories that reflect the experiences of South Asian communities in the UK. The journey begins with a depiction of border control at an airport, showcasing footage of South Asian arrivals in the 1960s, and extends to themes of migration, community, and cultural identity.

The Guardian

Virk emphasizes the historical ties between Britain and South Asia, referencing the founding of the East India Company in 1600 and the impact of British colonial rule. He highlights the activism of South Asian communities in the UK, particularly in response to racism, as exemplified by his father's involvement in the Indian Workers’ Association and the protests following the racist murder of Satnam Singh Gill in 1981. Virk draws parallels between past and present, noting a resurgence of racist incidents and a "hostile environment" reminiscent of his parents' experiences.

The Guardian

A significant aspect of the exhibition is its focus on the narratives of South Asian women. Virk includes a dedicated space for his late mother, poet Jasvir Kang, who broadcasted a Punjabi show in the 1990s. He asserts that women played crucial roles beyond traditional domestic spheres, challenging societal norms. Virk states, “There were women like my mother who were going against the status quo,” underscoring the importance of recognizing their contributions to both family and society.

The Guardian

The exhibition concludes with a reflection space, allowing visitors to process their own experiences related to the themes presented. Feedback from attendees reveals the emotional impact of the exhibition, with one visitor expressing that it had taken them on a "joyous, emotional, beautiful journey." Another shared a personal story of experiencing racism, highlighting the exhibition's role in fostering dialogue and healing.

The Guardian

Hardish Virk articulates the exhibition's intent to create a living museum of South Asian stories, stating, “My family story is part of a tapestry of stories that exist throughout Coventry and beyond.” He acknowledges the struggles of previous generations while emphasizing the importance of their legacy in shaping contemporary identities.

The Guardian

Despite the exhibition's positive reception, Virk notes concerns regarding the "normalisation of racism" in recent years, suggesting that his parents would be disappointed by current societal attitudes. This critique serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by South Asian communities in the UK.

The Guardian

• “The original concept came from this idea of a living museum of south Asian stories,” — Hardish Virk, Curator

The Guardian

• “They still set the foundation on which we are able to do this,” — Hardish Virk, Curator

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• “Never has a museum moved me so much,” — Exhibition Visitor

The Guardian

The "Stories That Made Us" exhibition not only celebrates South Asian heritage but also serves as a platform for reflection and dialogue on the complexities of identity and community in contemporary society.

The Guardian