Get Up, Stand Up: Sounds of Hackney

This week an afternoon of music and art was held in Hackney Museum, inspired by the 'Roots, Rhythms and Records' exhibition in celebration of Black History Month. The event was a joint effort, with Purple Stars and the weekly art group held at the museum by Advance customers. Purple Stars are group of four young men who volunteer with the University of East London's Rix Centre, and at Hackney Museum with both institutions working together to help engage and inspire young men to explore their identity and heritage. Each partner contributes a different focus; the Rix Centre is based in the University of East London, and focuses on developing new multimedia technology which is accessible to people with learning disabilities. Purple Stars offer support with sensory aid; Hackney Museum teach people how to work with each other and be sociable, and Advance art group meet weekly to create wonderful pieces of art! The team created a beautiful and original final piece, inspired by sound system culture. Rix Centre volunteer Santino said; 'It's a good foundation for the groups working together again!'

Between now and March, Purple Stars are producing an art exhibition in celebration of Disabled Access Day at Hackney Museum, to celebrate and promote the visibility of people with disabilities.