One of the major reasons we were able to collect images for the archive was because we wanted the focus of the first generation of migrants to the Black Country to be lauded and heralded amongst current generations of Punjabis for their tenacity, courage and sheer hard work in coming to the region. We have therefore commissioned artists to help us achieve this by creating the need for a colouring book amongst early years. We have commissioned the brilliant artist Suman Johal from ArtSikh and as you can see by the two examples on show how she is applying her skills to the desired effect! The colouring book will be a valuable and much needed educational tool which we are piloting amongst the first generation of Punjabis who arrived here int he 1960s as well as parents oand early years Punjabi for feedback. We aim to distribute the books strategically around the Black Country in order for our creative and heritage goals as a living archive in the community.
A couple of examples from the Apna Heritage Archive for a new educational colouring book for early years group about Punjabi Migration to the Black Country. ©Suman Johal and Black Country Visual arts. Made possible by Arts Council England