Through Their Eyes: A volunteer shares her favourite works in 'Echoes of Us'

Connection

Joy Gerrard, Protest Crowd, London

Joy Gerrard’s striking ink drawings capture the energy and scale of crowds taking part in protests and demonstrations. Using black ink in different shades and densities, she creates a sense of light and shadow across the paper. Some areas are densely filled with marks, while others are much lighter, creating a strong contrast and a feeling of movement and atmosphere. If you look closely at the crowds you can begin to pick out people, buildings and signs. Although the drawings record specific protests, they also made me think about what brings people together – and the power of people coming together to make their voices heard.

Memory

Joy Labinjo, Man Drinking Coffee

Joy Labinjo’s Man Drinking Coffee is inspired by the sort of photographs you might find in a family photo album. The painting shows her father enjoying a quiet moment with his coffee, surrounded by details that make the scene feel personal and familiar.

The way Labinjo has arranged the different elements of the painting draws attention to her dad on the right-hand side, while a plant and hanging lamp create some balance on the left. The bold pattern on his shirt is really striking and immediately caught my eye. There’s something wonderfully everyday about the scene, but Labinjo’s use of colour, pattern and composition transforms this ordinary moment into a celebration of family and memory.

Belonging

Zadie Xa, 91 Chyzanthemunz 4 Imsook

Zadie Xa’s 91 Chyzanthemunz 4 Imsook is a richly layered textile work made from a mixture of hand and machine stitching, fabrics, pearl buttons, faux fur, synthetic hair and bamboo. At first glance, it reminded me of a colourful wall hanging. Look more closely, though, and you’ll see lots of different textures and materials coming together to create a sense of depth.

Xa uses a gentle palette of pale pink, blue, brown, grey and olive green. The pale pink is particularly noticeable and brings some warmth and softness. The strands of fur that hang down add another layer of texture and draw your eye towards the bottom. It’s a work that rewards close looking. New details emerge the longer you spend with it.

You can see the 'Echoes of Us' exhibition in the St Luke's church gallery at The Box until the end of Sunday 20 September. Opening hours are 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday. Entry is free. Tickets can be booked in advance online if you'd like to enjoy priority access.