New exhibition captures local migrant stories

Kristina, a Norewegian-Sami American-Choctaw, is the founder of Soulfood Café and Grocer and Mata, originally from the Cook Islands, now lives and works in Woy Woy, owning local business, Kitchen Chic Antiques and Vintage

A new exhibition that explores the role of migrant communities on the Coast has been launched – with four Woy Woy businesses right at the very heart of it.

The ‘If These Walls Could Talk’ exhibit uses visual storytelling to shine a light on the experiences and contributions of the four migrant business owners.

The four businesses highlighted in the project are: Soulfood Café and Grocer, Satang Thai Café, Kitchen Chic Antiques, and Spices 29.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan, said the project ‘beautifully and powerfully’ captures a series of important local migrant stories.

“Through photographs and written narratives, you will be immersed in the stories of eight local business owners that helped make our region a wonderful place to live, work and play,” Vaughan said.

“’If These Walls Could Talk’ provides insight into the cultural, social and economic perspectives of migrant business owners who have chosen to call the Coast home.

Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said migrant communities make an invaluable contribution to the Central Coast.

“Cultural diversity helps to make the Coast a dynamic place and will play a crucial role in the region’s bright future,” Hart said.

With additional contributions of four migrant business owners from The Entrance, a demountable storyboard at Memorial Park will showcase elements of the project to compliment the visual storytelling featured online.

‘If These Walls Could Talk’ launched on May 21 to coincide with ‘World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue’, an international day to acknowledge cultural diversity within the community.

Source:
Media release, May 26
Central Coast Council