Anarkali Dress Takes Center Stage
Preston’s Fishergate Shopping Centre becomes a vibrant hub of culture and community
The Harris Museum and Art Gallery, in partnership with Sahara in Preston, is illuminating Fishergate Shopping Centre with the ‘Free To Be Me’ exhibition. This stunning showcase, which is live until 17 August, is a vibrant celebration of South Asian Heritage Month.
The exhibition’s centrepiece is a breathtaking hand-made Anarkali dress, a collaborative masterpiece created by The Harris Volunteers and twenty-five members of Sahara’s Coffee Afternoon Groups. Adorned with intricate details exploring themes of culture, identity, hobbies, and nature, the dress is a testament to the power of community and creativity.
Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, who unveiled the exhibition, praised the exhibition, stating,
“This is a beautiful representation of 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.”
Zafar Coupland, Manager of Sahara in Preston, echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in the collaboration and the opportunity to showcase the talents of the women involved. Sahara, a voluntary organisation supporting BME women in Preston, has been working closely with The Harris team since Winter 2023 to create a space for women to connect, learn, and grow.
The exhibition’s opening event was a resounding success, attended by a local MP who officially unveiled the stunning Anarkali dress. Keith Mitchell, General Manager at Fishergate Shopping Centre, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:
“It’s a great pleasure working with The Harris on this fantastic exhibition. We’re committed to transforming Fishergate Shopping Centre into more than just a shopping destination; we want it to be a central community hub for events and exhibitions like this to bring families and communities together.”
The ‘Free To Be Me’ exhibition is a free event and open to all. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of South Asian culture and to appreciate the talent and dedication of the local community.
