Taking Flight

Taking Flight explores themes of migration music and story, uncovering some of the rich wealth of stories found within migrant communities living in the Thanet area. Supported by Arts Council England and Kent County Council the project was led by artist, Filipe Gomes and storyteller, Emily Hennesey. Working extensively with local migrant communities, the culmination of the work was presented as a 'sound experience' at various cultural venues, such as, galleries, theatres and public spaces in and around the Thanet area (east Kent). The experience focussed on placing audiences within a real-time sonic situation, one which attempts to elicit themes of anxiety, fear, hope and aspiration - essentially highlighting the potential emotional experiences felt by migrants (encapsulating the notion of taking flight in to the unknown). The work was featured as part of the Turner Contemporary launch in 2011, and partnered with various community engagement organisations including, The Kent Cultural Baton, Margate Theatre Royal, Margate Adult Learning Centre and Kent New Recipes. ​