top of page

WALES WINDOW ALABAMA

A Legacy of Light and Solidarity: The Wales Window of Alabama

 

"Pure light is the unity of ALL colours"

John Petts

The story of the Wales Window for Alabama

This exhibition, 'Make it Right', is a powerful conversation between Wales and Alabama, connecting over 1,000 young artists across continents. It is a testament to the enduring power of art to foster empathy and remembrance. The project's genesis lies in a profound act of international solidarity that began over 60 years ago.

In 1963, the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, was bombed, a horrific act of violence that killed four young African-American girls. This tragedy sparked outrage and sorrow across the globe. In Wales, artist John Petts, moved by the injustice, created a stunning stained glass window known as the Wales Window of Alabama. This window, depicting a Black Christ with one hand outstretched in protest, and one in acceptance, was a gift from the people of Wales to the church, a symbol of shared humanity and a refusal to be silent in the face of hatred.

'Make it Right' revisits this historical moment and asks a new generation to respond. During the summer of 2023, schools and colleges across Carmarthenshire were introduced to this story. Pupils and students were tasked with recreating a section of the window, with their individual contributions being brought together to inform the various outcomes showcased in this exhibition. These youthful responses, in conjunction with an original musical score composed by The Water Poets, form a cornerstone of the project and its emotional impact.

A key highlight of the exhibition is a digital animation by Domingos Studios, which brings the students' artwork to life. This animated piece serves as a dynamic focal point, into a unified visual narrative. Another significant work is a beautifully embroidered blanket, crafted by staff and students from the Carmarthen School of Art. One of these blankets has been permanently gifted to the Birmingham Civil Rights Museum, a tangible symbol of the lasting bond between these communities.

Independent pieces by college students are also showcased, offering diverse and personal reflections on the exhibition's core themes. At its heart, 'Make it Right' is an expression of international empathy, echoing the spirit of the original Wales Window. The project proudly supports the Welsh Government’s Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan, demonstrating Wales' continued commitment to amplifying voices of peace and unity across borders. Through the collaborative efforts of young creatives, this exhibition ensures that the legacy of the Wales Window of Alabama shines on, a beacon of hope and a call to make things right.

Wales_Window_original.jpg
Jackie02.jpg

Wales Window Virtual Exhibition

Kids01.jpg
WW-Petts.jpg

© DOMINGOSSTUDIOS.CO.UK

bottom of page