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The Harris Museum is hosting an exhibition in the city centre to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month.
The showcase will be a collaboration between The Harris Volunteers and attendees of the Sahara Coffee Afternoon groups.
The ‘Free To Be Me’ exhibition will feature a hand-made Anarkali dress made of silk and corduroy, designed by The Harris volunteers and embellished by twenty-five Sahara members.
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Decorations adorn the dress which explore themes of culture, identity, hobbies, and nature.
The creation of the dress, which spanned over eight months, is said to embody the spirit of community and collaboration.
Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, said: “This exhibition beautifully represents community diversity and creativity. It highlights the incredible work of The Harris Volunteers and Sahara’s women and serves as an important celebration of heritage and identity during South Asian Heritage Month.”
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Sahara is a voluntary organisation that works for the benefit of black and minority ethnic (BME) women in Preston, providing free help, support, and opportunities for women to learn and progress in life.
Zafar Coupland, Sahara manager said: “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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Councillor Anna Hindle officially opened the exhibition on Thursday 18 July at 2pm on level two of the Fishergate Shopping Centre – outside TK Maxx.
The free exhibition will run from 18 July to 17 August, throughout South Asian Heritage Month.
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