Barbara Walker's Art on Windrush Scandal Opens in Manchester

Barbara Walker, a Midlands-based artist, is currently exhibiting her powerful artwork in Manchester, which delves into the Windrush scandal and the personal experiences of her son. The exhibition features large charcoal portraits and aims to create a sense of intimacy and reflection for the audience. Walker's work is deeply personal, stemming from her own background as the child of Windrush migrants from Jamaica, and it seeks to highlight the emotional toll of societal injustices. As she prepares for the exhibition, Walker reflects on the challenges she faced as a mature student in the art world, where there was a strong emphasis on contemporary forms like sculpture and installation. Despite these challenges, her tenacity and passion for art have driven her to create meaningful work that resonates with her experiences and those of her community. Walker expresses her surprise at the mainstream attention her work is receiving, as she initially felt uncertain about its reception. The exhibition is designed to mentally disarm viewers, encouraging them to engage with the themes of identity and systemic issues. Her son, Solomon, has come to appreciate the exhibition, although he initially struggled with the exposure it brought. Ultimately, Walker views this exhibition not as a culmination of her work but as a starting point, emphasizing that there is much more to explore and express in her artistic journey moving forward.