The free exhibition was made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with Suffolk Archives working closely with community groups to bring it to life.
It explored historical and contemporary migration experiences to Suffolk since the end of World War II. This included oral history recordings, stories of migrant entrepreneurs, and archive materials from the Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality. Visitors learned about Jewish refugees, Polish soldier Marion Laskowski, the Windrush generation, and saw examples of traditional clothing from around the world.
The exhibition also featured a community art installation, The Journey, created in collaboration with local groups, artists, and schools. The installation consisted of 125 birds, made from sustainably sourced plywood, each decorated to represent a unique migration story. The flock is currently on display at The Hold.
Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality said:
"I am delighted that Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk has been nominated for Community Engagement Programme of the Year at the Museums + Heritage Awards.
“This nomination reflects the incredible collaboration between Suffolk Archives, local community groups, and artists. It’s a wonderful acknowledgment of how migration stories have shaped our county’s history and brought together diverse voices in a meaningful way."
Anna Preedy, Director of Museums + Heritage Awards, said:
“This year’s shortlist truly reflects the breadth and depth of the cultural sector and its determination to deliver first-class visitor experiences for all.”
The global awards celebrate the very best in the world of museums, galleries, and cultural and heritage visitor attractions. This year’s shortlist includes entrants from across the UK and 14 other countries ranging from Norway and Egypt to Australia.
‘Arrivals’ is competing alongside exhibitions from Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, Manchester Museum, The Landmark Trust, and Historic England. The winners will be announced on 15 May.
Suffolk Archives’ latest exhibition is Departures, which explores emigration from Suffolk. It runs at The Hold, on Ipswich’s Waterfront, until 31 May, with a programme of tie-in events. Visit www.suffolkarchives.co.uk for more details.
