Inspired by the tradition of Islamic calligraphy, Firstsite’s Arts Council Collection National Partners Programme exhibition, ‘My name is not Refugee’, features hand-painted calligraphy created by artist Ismail Üzümlü.

This film by LGOC Videography was made during the installation of the exhibition in November 2020, and features Ismail painting directly onto the walls of the exhibition in English, Arabic, Farsi and Turkish.

The calligraphy captures quotes from the curatorial group of refugees and asylum seekers living in Colchester, including their thoughts about the exhibition, their experiences, and phrases which are important to them.

‘My name is not Refugee’ is the fourth exhibition by Firstsite as part of the Arts Council Collection National Partners Programme, which will continue into 2022.

Find out more about the exhibition