A compelling new exhibition, “By Appointment Only,” has opened its doors at the London Museum Docklands, offering a profound and timely exploration of Romani art, culture, and heritage. This significant Romani Art Exhibition, co-curated by artist Corrina Eastwood, champions the work of three British Romani artists: Eastwood herself, Delaine Le Bas, and Dan Turner. Through their distinct yet powerful artistic practices, these individuals engage in Romani visual activism, delving into their personal identities and lived experiences to challenge preconceptions and celebrate the enduring contributions of Romani communities to British society.
Romani Art Exhibition: The Artists and Their Narratives
The Romani Art Exhibition is anchored by three distinct artistic voices, each using their work to articulate complex personal and collective histories.
Corrina Eastwood’s deeply personal contribution, “Sugar Coated,” incorporates 3D-printed casts of her late father’s hands, serving as a poignant tribute that speaks to heritage, memory, and lineage. Delaine Le Bas presents “Tap Your Heels Together Three Times,” an artwork that powerfully weaves in her grandfather’s prize rosette. This piece explores themes of belonging, gender, and modernity, drawing inspiration from traditional Romani practices such as totting and rag and bone collecting, while questioning societal inclusion and exclusion. Dan Turner, an artist and educator based in South-east London, offers “What Makes a Home?” This installation thoughtfully uses traditional Romani craft objects to examine the nuanced relationship between Romani and mainstream British culture, posing questions about the nature and permanence of home. Collectively, these works embody Romani visual activism, a critical method of self-representation and cultural assertion that brings often-overlooked narratives to the forefront of this Romani Art Exhibition.
Echoes of Docklands and Romani History Context
The choice of London Museum Docklands as the venue is deeply resonant, drawing inspiration from the area’s historical significance as a nexus of trade and industry. This historical echo extends to the broader narrative of Romani presence in Britain. Romani people have a recorded history in the United Kingdom dating back to the early 16th century, with the first documented Romani person in England appearing in 1512. Historically, Romani communities, including notable settlements like Norwood in London, have been integral parts of the city’s social and economic fabric, demonstrating remarkable adaptability over centuries. This Romani Art Exhibition brings this rich Romani heritage to light.
The exhibition aims to contextualise these experiences by presenting a comprehensive timeline of British Romani history, meticulously compiled by author, archaeologist, and award-winning filmmaker John-Henry Phillips. This timeline spans from the year 500 to 2022, providing a sweeping historical overview. Complementing the timeline are films and oral history pieces, also produced by John-Henry Phillips, which further illuminate the resilience and enduring legacy of Romani communities and how their stories continue to evolve today. The Romani Art Exhibition is a testament to this enduring spirit.
Challenging Stereotypes at the Romani Art Exhibition
The exhibition’s title, “By Appointment Only,” is a deliberate and potent reference to the historical discrimination and segregation faced by Romani people. It echoes the evolution of signage from outright exclusion, such as “No travellers or Gypsies allowed,” to the more subtly restrictive “Travellers by Appointment Only”. By foregrounding the artistic visions of Corrina Eastwood, Delaine Le Bas, and Dan Turner, the Romani Art Exhibition actively seeks to dismantle pervasive stereotypes and foster a more nuanced, empathetic understanding of Romani culture and its integral place within wider society.
This display is more than just an art exhibition; it is a cultural intervention that highlights the creativity, livelihoods, and profound contributions of Romani communities to the diverse tapestry of London and the United Kingdom. It moves beyond simplistic or prejudiced portrayals, offering a vital space for dialogue, connection, and a deeper appreciation of a community that has long been part of the British narrative. The opening of “By Appointment Only” is significant news for London’s dynamic cultural scene, making Romani perspectives accessible and celebrated through this important Romani Art Exhibition.
A Call to Experience Romani Art and Connect
The “By Appointment Only” Romani Art Exhibition at London Museum Docklands offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with rich Romani culture and history through the compelling medium of contemporary art. It invites audiences to look beyond stereotypes and connect with the personal stories and broader societal contributions of Romani people. As a new cultural highlight, this exhibition promises to be a moving and insightful experience, contributing significantly to the ongoing dialogue about diversity, heritage, and inclusion within London’s vibrant society, all showcased within the context of this remarkable Romani Art Exhibition.
