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Harris Museum exhibition commemorates South Asian Heritage Month

The exhibition’s focal point is a hand-made anarkali dress by the community women.

The Free To Be Me exhibition’s focal point is a Anarkali dress / Image – Preston City Council

A new exhibition at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library in Preston, Lancashire, England will celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, that runs from July 18, to Aug. 17 in the country.

Named 'Free To Be Me' after the celebration’s theme this year, the exhibition’s focal point is an exquisite Anarkali dress ( a type of woman’s dress popular in the Mughal era) meticulously crafted from silk and corduroy. It is a collaborative effort between The Harris Volunteers and the Sahara Coffee Afternoon Groups.

The piece, designed by The Harris Volunteers and embellished by twenty-five members of Sahara, showcases intricate decorations symbolizing themes of culture, identity, hobbies, and nature. The creation of this dress, spanning over eight months, epitomizes the spirit of community and collaboration.

Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, will formally inaugurate the exhibition on July 18. “This exhibition beautifully represents community diversity and creativity. It highlights the incredible work of The Harris Volunteers and the women of Sahara, serving as a significant celebration of heritage and identity during South Asian Heritage Month,”she said.

Sahara, a voluntary organization in Preston, primarily benefits black and minority ethnic women, offering free support and opportunities for personal development. Zafar Coupland, manager of Sahara, expressed his appreciation for the partnership, stating, "We're pleased to be involved with this exhibition, which brought together talented women from different cultures to produce this wonderful Anarkali dress. Sahara is grateful for the support of the staff and volunteers from The Harris.”
 

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