Sacred Things: Elalmadinah …To The City

This winter the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum presents Sacred Things, a new exhibition by British photographer and anthropologist Liz Hingley.

For this fascinating exhibition Hingley has collaborated with Syrian refugees who have recently been welcomed to Coventry on a unique UN programme. The work draws on the stories and experiences of the Syrian individuals, and explores symbols both of the past and of contemporary life.

Historically, honored visitors were presented symbolic keys to the city gates. In this exhibition, the sim card given to refugees on landing in the UK appears as the present-day key to the city. The sim card offers a direct link to scattered loved ones and a collection of photographic memories. As an object and tool it offers an immediate sense of security, identity and home in a new place.

Presented within an immersive installation, keys from the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum’s collections represent the city’s eclectic history alongside illuminated photographs of silver sim cards portraying messages from Syrian individuals to their new city.

This project was commissioned by GRAIN Projects and is generously supported by Arts Council England, Rubery Owen Trust, Coventry University and the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

Image: Liz Hingley 2017

Access information: this exhibition is in a dark room with light boxes to highlight the art work and keys on display. Visitors who may find orientation around the exhibition space difficult due to the darkness can borrow a torch,
available as you enter. There is a member of staff in the exhibition, please ask if you require any assistance. 

Free