A stunning new photography exhibition in Bethnal Green, London, is shedding light on the rich tapestry of the Bengali community in the East End. Titled ‘I Am Who I Am Now’, this exhibition at the Four Corners gallery, running until August 3, 2024, presents a captivating journey through the lives of Bengali residents over the past half-century.
The exhibition masterfully interweaves personal narratives with the wider socio-political landscape, creating a poignant and insightful experience. It showcases intimate family snapshots, offering glimpses into the lives of individuals and families, as well as striking images that capture the spirit of community solidarity. These powerful visuals reveal the resilience and strength of the Bengali community in the face of challenges and celebrate their cultural heritage.
The heart of the exhibition lies in the Bengali Photo Archive, a newly established collection of personal and family photographs donated by local residents. These images, reflecting a spectrum of emotions and experiences, form the foundation of the exhibition. They are displayed alongside works by renowned photographers who have documented the working lives, activism, and anti-racist struggles of the Bengali community. These photographers include Raju Vaidyanathan, Mayar Akash, Anthony Lam, Paul Halliday, Sarah Ainslie, David Hoffman, and Paul Trevor. Their work adds depth and context to the personal narratives presented through the archive.
Adding another layer of depth to the exhibition are collaboratively-created works. These pieces, such as photographs embroidered by mothers and daughters, showcase the power of shared storytelling and the enduring bond between generations. Through these collaborative endeavors, the exhibition beautifully illustrates the intertwined nature of individual and collective experiences.
‘I Am Who I Am Now’ offers a captivating and insightful exploration of the Bengali community in the East End. It is a testament to their enduring spirit, their cultural richness, and their powerful contribution to the fabric of London’s diverse landscape. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving personal stories and documenting the experiences of communities, enriching our understanding of history and fostering empathy and appreciation for the diverse threads that make up our society.
