Explore Carson Parkin-Fairley's art, a fusion of religious iconography and popular culture, reflecting on human experience. Discover how her work bridges cultures, initiates dialogue, and celebrates collective stories, offering a unique perspective on creativity and the power of visual storytelling.

From 1951 to 1958, approximately 2,500 armed forces members of the United States Air Force were deployed at RAF Manston near Ramsgate. Of these personnel, 200 were African American and a variety of other ethnic backgrounds.

American servicemen stationed abroad were still mandated to abide by domestic regulations, including the notorious Jim Crow laws which actively oppressed African-Americans and other non-white communities. Disobedience of these oppressive norms commonly led to harsh retribution in the form of verbal abuse, fines, jail time, physical punishment or even death. These abhorrent statutes barred minorities from exercising basic rights such as education and suffrage. 

In our latest episode of the Being... series, we talk to Sabina Desir. Sabina is the curator of the Banned exhibition at the Turner Contemporary and also serves as the Artistic Director of the Freedom Road Project in Ramsgate. In the episode, Sabina discusses the work of Richard Birch and Charlie Evaristo-Boyce, explains its significance, and shares some of the untold stories surrounding the African American servicemen who were stationed at RAF Manston in the 1950s.

Growing up is a difficult process for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for young girls. From facing gender stereotypes and expectations to dealing with the physical and emotional changes of adolescence, there are many issues that adolescent girls must contend with as they transition into adulthood. Additionally, these challenges can be compounded by social media and digital pressures, which may lead to bullying and body image issues. It is important for young girls to have support systems, access to resources, and positive role models in order to help them navigate these challenging times.

This touching audio piece looks into the incredible work of Rites For Girls, an organisation that offers a safe place for young people to learn about about gender equality and that aims to equip girls with the tools they need to challenge stereotypes and create their own paths - helping them become strong, empowered women.

In this episode we look at the incredible work of Elvis Barham - a Ramsgate resident whose work orientates around transforming discarded items into stunning creations.

In a special episode of our ‘being…’ series, we talk to Rebecca Whiteman, an artist whose work is driven by a fear of loss: loss of memory, loss of the tangible, loss of connection. Her father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis triggered a desire to interrogate these feelings, ultimately navigating her to the slow crafts of hand stitching and patchwork as processes of meditation and acceptance. Through the intensity of gazing into the past, Rebecca noticed the importance of frames in remembering; how they work as viewpoints, protective shields and shrines around our losses.

This group of immensely talented singers would, under normal circumstances, meet regularly to rehearse and perform. Led by Greg Tassell, the Thanet Chamber Choir have faced many challenges in 2020, non more difficult than the loss of a friend and fellow singer, Tristan Harper.

We went to visit the choir on a cold windy night as they rehearse for one last time before lockdown. We met at St Augustines in Westgate to talk about the joys of singing as a group, the challenges surrounding Covid and most importantly, to share a musical experience.

As the evening passes, Filipe & Symone are still at the Pub, their food has arrived and the two are now very deep in conversation. Symone returns to her childhood and recollects moments of happiness and distress. For the first time, Symone brings up Nova Marshall, a community artist and close friend to whom Symone unveils a massive revelation.

If you are or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this series, visit our help and support contacts for links to organisations that may be able to help.

In a packed noisy pub, Symone talks about Mental Health and her struggle with it. In this episode we get insight on Symone's coping mechanisms which at times are shocking and upsetting. We also look at how Symone has triumphed in her lifelong battle with self harming and discuss the devastating effects of insomnia. By this point, Filipe and Symone are clearly very connected and comfortable talking openly and freely.