In Spring 2020 we launched our first digital project, the UNHIDDEN series. We commissioned four artists to create a short video expressing their thoughts during the Coronavirus pandemic, in whichever art form they choose. Please enjoy this collection of stories from Sophie Potter, Channique Sterling-Brown, Emily Curtis and Daniel Cassidy.
This project was supported by Arts Council England.
Part One - ‘Lockdown with Sophie’ by Sophie Potter
This is Sophie, she has been keeping busy during lockdown baking cakes and sunbathing in the garden. Sophie and her sister Emily were supposed to be working on their play with us, ‘SOPHIE’ this summer. Sophie is gutted it has been postponed. When we asked Sophie about this she said, “It is annoying but it means we have more time to have fun in the rehearsal room - which is my favourite.”
Part Two - ‘Black Girl Magic’ by Channique Sterling-Brown
“The most disrespected person in America is the black woman. The most unprotected person in America is the black woman. The most neglected person in America is the black woman.”
“So said Malcolm X in 1962. Throughout history I believe this statement rings true, not just in the US but across the world.
I wanted to write this piece as a reminder to black girls and women everywhere, we are more than the stereotypes people often try and confine us to. A reminder of our resilience in the face of racism and sexism alike. Hopefully it sheds a little light, for others, on what it is to navigate the world as a black woman, and I hope it is empowering for my black sisters, who often feel unheard and overlooked. I hear you, I see you, you've got this.”
Part Three - ‘Siblings’ by Emily Curtis
“Do we ever truly understand what the closest person to us is thinking and feeling when communication can be challenging between those we love?
How much protection do we need when it comes to relationships and consent? Are any of us capable of revealing the depths of our thoughts and desires, and is it necessary to do so?
These questions relate to us all, because we can all be vulnerable when it comes to love. However, this dialogue is vital when guiding and advising someone with a learning disability, because guess what... they would like to explore their sexuality too.”
Part Four - ‘Uncle Clive’ by Daniel Cassidy
“We all know that The Prime Minister is a man who has used the terms ‘Piccaninnies’ and ‘Watermelon Smiles’ publicly - yet he’s still in charge. This made me wonder about the way his attitude may bleed into our society, become normalised and be replicated.
For anyone wondering, ‘Uncle Clive’ is not a true story. But if he were real, he would probably proclaim, ‘I’m not racist.’”