New Publication Launches during National Refugee Week and World Refugee Day 2024

This publication features a selection of work made in collaboration with asylum seekers and refugees resident in one of Birmingham’s government assigned hotels.

Throughout 2023 conversations and workshops took place with men from the hotel, inviting participants to take part in photographic activities, including large and medium format, digital cameras, collage and Ai technology. Portraits were co-created and Ai images produced reflecting on the men’s experiences, journeys and future.

The participants left their home countries for many reasons including fleeing war and religious persecution. Those who took part shared their experiences of stories fragmented by conditions, time and fear, and of years of struggle seeking sanctuary. Some wanting to remain anonymous through fear of consequences.

The title was taken from a conversation and represents brotherhood, family, understanding and camaraderie. This publication aims to raise awareness and invites the audience to reflect on people’s lives with care and compassion.

With thanks to everyone who took part and shared their story. This publication is dedicated to them and all those who they represent.

Workshops were led by Anu Gamanagari, Dan Burwood, Mark Murphy and Stephen Burke. With thanks to Chris Neophytou, John Tipper, Mohamed Somji and Nicola Shipley.

GRAIN Projects were commissioned by Birmingham Museums Trust, with the support of Refugee Action and Birmingham City University.

The launch on World Refugee Day is in partnership with the University of Birmingham, Celebrating Sanctuary Birmingham, Birmingham Community Hosting Network (BIRCH), Stories of Hope and Home, and Notnow Collect