My Father's Dreams

By Charlene Belgrave

About the pillowcases

In the late 1960s my father migrated to England from Barbados to start a new life for himself. On my own journey to his homeland and discovering letters that my grandmother wrote to him gave me the inspiration. My pillowcases depict his journey from homeland to home, as this is what England has now become to him. Incorporating the two countries, Barbados and England, are united through the use of the English flag overlaid with the outline of the island of Barbados signifying his new identity as both Barbadian and also a British citizen. The butterfly represents my father flying free to find his destiny leaving his country and family behind. The wings make up the shape of Barbados and printed onto them are parts of the English map and the area we live. My father's family are present in the photographs and letters sent to him by my grandmother.

About Charlene Belgrave                                  

Charlene Belgrave graduated in 2005 with a BA HONS Degree in Jewellery from MiddlesexUniversity, her degree show was exhibited at New Designers, Islington and the Trueman Brewery, Brick Lane. She has also had the experience of working for two Costume Jewellery companies and a Leatherwear and Accessories Designer during her placement year. In October 2005 she took part in the New Artists and Makers Exhibition in Warwickshire. From September 1st - 31st October 2006 her work can be seen at Bexley Heritage Trust, Hall Place and Gardens in her solo exhibition 'The Fabric of Family' during Black History Month.