Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month: 'Free To Be Me' Exhibition

To celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, there will be an exhibition showcasing the inspiring creativity of The Harris Volunteers and attendees of the Sahara Coffee Afternoon Groups.

The 'Free To Be Me' exhibition is in partnership with Sahara in Preston, and hosted by The Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library at the Fishergate Shopping Centre, on Level 2, PR1 8HJ from Thursday, 18 July 2024 until Saturday, 17 August 2024 throughout South Asian Heritage Month.

This free exhibition will highlight the remarkable work of The Harris Volunteers and the ladies from the Sahara Coffee Afternoon Groups. The centrepiece of the exhibit is a stunning hand-made Anarkali dress made of silk and corduroy, designed by The Harris Volunteers and intricately embellished by twenty-five Sahara members.

Vibrant decorations adorn the dress which explore themes of culture, identity, hobbies, and nature. This exhibition aims to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, with this year's theme being 'Free To Be Me'. The creation of the dress, which spanned over eight months, embodies the spirit of community and collaboration.

Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, said:

"This exhibition beautifully represents community diversity and creativity. It highlights the incredible work of The Harris Volunteers and Sahara's women and serves as an important celebration of heritage and identity during South Asian Heritage Month."

Sahara is a voluntary organisation that works predominantly for the benefit of black and minority ethnic (BME) women in Preston. Providing free help, support, and opportunities for women to learn and progress in life.

Zafar Coupland, Manager of Sahara in Preston said:

"We're pleased to be involved with this exhibition, which brought together talented women from different cultures to produce this wonderful Anarkali dress. Sahara is grateful for the support of the staff and volunteers from The Harris."

The official opening will be conducted by Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts, at 2pm on Thursday 18 July.

The Harris team and Harris Volunteers have been delivering creative sessions at Sahara since Winter 2023, getting together to chat, make art and improve wellbeing.

The Harris is currently operating from other local spaces around Preston, with plans for pop-up exhibitions and events in 2024. For information visit The Harris - Harris Your Place Project.

Further information

About the Harris

Established in 1893, The Harris, a Grade I listed building, is owned and managed by Preston City Council. Renowned as one of the region's premier museums, galleries, and libraries, The Harris hosts art collections and activities catering to all ages. With over 380,000 visitors in 2018/2019, it remains a cornerstone of cultural engagement in Preston. 
For more information visit The Harris.

Currently delivering Harris Your Place, a major capital project made possible with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund; Towns Fund; Preston City Council; Lancashire County Council; the Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal; DCMS; Arts Council England, public donations and a wide range of Trusts and Foundations.

The magnificent Grade I Listed building is poised to reopen in 2025, offering a diverse array of events and activities.