In partnership with Derby City Council and Derby Homes, Community Action ran an archive project from 2022-23 in order to create a snapshot of what life was like for people in the city of Derby, during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The project was unique in that it aimed to bring all communities together, to get a feel for how Covid affected people from many diverse backgrounds and situations.
It offered an opportunity to celebrate the success stories and kindness that was shown throughout the pandemic, as well as to recognise the difficulties and challenges that have been faced by people across the city. It also created a platform for people to tell their story, however small they think it might be, so that it can be captured for posterity and be part of the bigger picture.
Archivist, Joanne Gent went out to talk to different people, and held workshops with various groups and organisations. The material collected is archived at Derby Reference Library, for future citizens of Derby to see what life was like during the Covid pandemic.
Local artist, Maggie Roper-Attenborrow came up with the idea of The Derby Wall, made out of 1000 painted canvas tiles. These tiles have given individuals an opportunity to illustrate their emotions and feelings experienced throughout the pandemic.
The finished wall celebrates communities coming back together after the isolation of lockdowns.
The wall was exhibited at the Museum of Making and Derby Cathedral, where a special blessing service was held. Part of the Wall is still on display at Derby City Council.
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