Liverpool’s homeless community given platform at Walker Art Gallery to share their view of the world

Members of Liverpool’s branch of the homeless charity, Crisis, have produced a collection of photographs in response to the Linda McCartney Retrospective, on display at the Walker Art Gallery until 10 January.

Home for All comprises 12 photographs that vary from images of pets, to a view from a window and a pink plastic child’s guitar. Together they give the viewer an insight into the lives of people living in temporary accommodation.

The Crisis members were guided by their photography tutor to explore the style and technique of Linda’s work. The final body of work is humorous and tender but is also a candid depiction of the often harsh reality of their living environments.

John McGlone, Crisis Member said:

“It was excellent to hear about our work being displayed in the Walker Art Gallery. It was pleasing to have the opportunity to show some of our work to the wider community, via the Linda McCartney Retrospective, and also to show some of the help, support and high-quality training and learning opportunities provided by Crisis.”

Photographer: Robin Clewley

Paula Currie, Arts Coordinator, Crisis, said:

“The photographs in Home for All provide a counterpoint to Linda’s exhibition, but there are similarities too. These are most evident in Linda’s portraits of marginalised communities – her work made them visible. This is also a priority for Crisis. We ensure that members of Liverpool’s homeless community are truly visible: that their stories and lives are seen, heard and acknowledged. Art plays a vital part in this process.”

Siobhan Cull, Learning and Participation Manager, National Museums Liverpool said:

“Self-expression and access to the arts is fundamental to all of us so we’re very glad we have been able to bring Linda’s extraordinary work to the members of Crisis and we’re delighted it has resulted in this thought-provoking display.”

The exhibition also includes contact sheets, ephemera, and archive materials, including some of Linda’s journals from the 1960s and several of her cameras. An array of Linda’s exquisite Polaroids and sun prints are beautiful examples of her creativity and interest in early photographic processes.

Entry to the Walker Art Gallery and Home for All is free but as part of Covid safety measures, tickets must be booked in advance here.

Photographer: Robin Clewley

Tickets for Linda McCartney Retrospective are available to purchase online at £9 for adults and £8 for concessions. Members of National Museums Liverpool receive free entry to the exhibition.

To purchase tickets, or to become a member, click here.