Windrush 10, Everson Atkins. Flying fish

120cms x 121 cms

Everson Atkins arrived in Britain from Barbados at the age of eleven. In our conversations he spoke less about the practical details of work and family life, and more about his memories of school, belonging and the ways others responded to him as a young Caribbean migrant.

The quilt draws on these recollections while also celebrating aspects of Barbadian culture that remained important throughout his life. Flying fish, a national symbol of Barbados, appear above a postcard view of the coast near Christchurch, close to where Everson grew up. Books on Caribbean history and music reference the cultural traditions that travelled with him across the Atlantic.

At the heart of the quilt is Everson's own reflection: "In Barbados we got flying fish. Fish that actually flies and that's one of our main foods. Another one we got is black pudding and sauce. Normally we have that on a Saturday in the house."

These everyday memories of food, place and family life offer a personal connection to the culture and traditions that shaped his identity.