By Gemma Creasey

I first became involved with Emergency in the initial creation when it was known as Funnel. As suggested by the working title, this was to be a piece that would have a powerful visual impact in the space it occupied. Along with it’s visual presence, are the emotional journeys of the people arriving to the environment during the piece. Who are these invaders? Where have they come from? and why are they here?

The word 'refugee' is thrown around in the media and often brings up images of poverty and desperation. This means that all are put under the same label allowing us to ignore the fact that these are individuals with personal stories and journeys. During this project I realise how lucky I am because these situations do not discriminate. Anyone can be put in a state of emergency and be forced to leave their home and everything they know. Once you are safe how do you seek refuge in a foreign land and integrate within a new community? It could happen to any of us.