New Bradford photography exhibition in partnership with Gypsy and Traveller communities “showing our hope, joy and beauty” opens 18th May

‘Dreams and Songs to Sing’ is an exhibition by Bradford-based photographer Cath Muldowney, created in partnership with members of Bradford’s Gypsy and Traveller communities at Cartwright Hall Gallery, Lister Park, Bradford.

The installation is the product of five years of the photographer's work capturing portraits and photos of these communities, working alongside staff and members at Leeds GATE for the last two years.

Dreams and Songs to Sing is open to all and free from the 18th of May until the 8th of September.

Photos are included from iconic fairs and drives such as Lee Gap, at people’s homes and events. Objects are also on display, as well as showcasing life stories. This is the first time these communities have been part of an inclusive photography display in the region.

Kathleenanne Boswell lives on a site in Bradford and works at Leeds GATE as a Senior Youth Worker, engaging with tens of young people through education and activities in the region. Her family have lived for four generations on the site and are deeply connected to the region.

“As a Leeds GATE staff member and from the Traveller community, I’m privileged we get to do this exhibition. This has never happened for our communities before in Bradford. Myself and others have been so proud to be part of planning and design of it. I hope it’s going to raise awareness for our communities across Bradford and give people a clearer understanding of our heritage.”

Kathleenanne, her Mam and Granny are all woven into the backstory of Leeds GATE and the community activism at it’s heart; their life stories are told as part of the exhibition.

Gypsy and Traveller communities certainly face challenges and discrimination in our society, or being made to seem invisible in our history.

However, this exhibition is about finding and sharing Gypsy and Traveller hope, joy and beauty, opening in time to celebrate Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month in June. It showcases these communities and their place as a key part of the rich history of Bradford and West Yorkshire, and the distinct traditions and culture of the region through to the modern day.

It is a truly inclusive piece of work with our members. We thank them for sharing their likenesses and some of their life experiences with us, Cath and Cartwright Hall gallery – it couldn’t have happened without them.

A free family day event is planned on Saturday 22nd of June on the theme of “Traditions” for Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month. More information to be announced.

More information and all other upcoming events will be posted on the Bradford Museums and Galleries website as they are planned: https://bradfordmuseums.org/whats-on/ and on our website.

You can find Cath’s work here: https://www.cathmuldowneyphotography.com/exhibitions and on her Facebook and Instagram.