Made in collaboration with local residents, Settling showcases the pictures and stories of those who have moved to the city from around the world, from the recent past to the present day. Stories include the life journey of World War Two veteran Walerian ‘Val’ Tyminski , Pat Phillips the wife and business partner of a local artist, and Aaida Haughton’s story on finding love during the Bosnian Civil War.

The exhibition has two parts; The first is a projection of The Settling Archive and original photographs from contributor’s personal albums, digital versions of which will be gifted to the City Archives to preserve these stories. The second is Welcome Home, a series of diptychs by photographer Sam Ivin, made with contributors to the archive. Individuals own images
are shown alongside a portrait created by Ivin, reflecting on the experiences that have bought them to Stoke-on-Trent. Audiences are also invited to share their own stories to the exhibition.

The exhibition is supported by GRAIN Projects, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Arts Council England.