BCVA director and artist Anand Chhabra was recently commissioned by QUAD Arts Centre in Derby to deliver a creative learning project exploring heritage, migration and photography with local primary schools.
Working with Year 4 and Year 5 pupils from a diverse range of backgrounds, the five-week programme introduced students to ideas around transnational migration, identity and cultural heritage. Through a series of workshops, Anand supported pupils in reflecting on who they are, where their families come from and why these stories matter within the wider cultural life of the city.
Photography and storytelling were central to the learning process. Pupils developed practical skills in portrait photography and visual storytelling, learning how images can communicate personal stories and experiences. The project also encouraged students to think critically about representation within museums and collections, exploring how communities are represented in cultural institutions and how young people themselves can contribute to these narratives.
The programme involved collaboration with several local partners and included visits to Derby Museums and Art Gallery, where pupils explored historical collections and considered how heritage objects connect with stories of migration and identity. For many pupils, the experience of encountering these collections first-hand brought history to life — a moment that felt a little like “A Night at the Museum.”
As part of the project, pupils created their own photographic portraits and stories reflecting their heritage and experiences. These works will form the beginnings of a small photographic archive held within their school and local library, offering a lasting resource that future pupils and families can engage with.
Beyond developing creative and technical skills, the project encourages young people to reflect on diversity, representation and belonging. By creating space for pupils to explore their own stories and those of others, the programme helps foster respect for difference, strengthen community understanding and support more inclusive approaches to learning about heritage.
Photographs below show the second week of the programme, where pupils explored collections at Derby Museums and Art Gallery as part of the project.
Pear Tree Community School have a day at Derby Mueums & Art Gallery exploring collections and learning Photo-Storytelling Skills. Images © Anand Chhabra