The Drift

The Drift, London Wetland Centre, 2021

If you close your eyes, the sound of a bird beating its wings could almost be mistaken for the sound of a shirt hanging from a line on a windy day.

Empty clothes suggest the people they have contained.

This project traces delicate parallels between human and bird migration. Drawing inspiration from migratory paths, it combines textiles with socially engaged practice, asking us to consider individuals as well as the crowd.

Eloise traced the migration routes of all the visiting birds seen at WWT London in May of 2020. From this research she compiled a list of over 80 countries that the birds migrate to or from covering much of Africa, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, South Asia, Northern Europe and up through Scandinavia. 

40 Londoners who originate from or have lived in one of these countries were invited to swap a shirt of their own in exchange for a brand new Turnbull and Asser one. Each old shirt has been re-cut into a windsock, representing the person who once wore it - who once made a migratory journey of their own.

The youngest Participant is 1 and the eldest is 91.

36 countries are represented and the people are from all walks and stages of life; diplomats, refugees, children, retired people, poets and security guards, writers and baristas. One woman fled the Nazi’s over three quarters of a century ago, while others have fled dangerous and unliveable situations very recently.

Although this work is ostensibly about migration, it is more simply about people. People will continue to seek ways to improve their lives – by moving to where opportunity or safety can be found.

It is a supremely hopeful act.

This project was generously supported by Turnbull and Asser, who very kindly supplied the 40 new shirts. Turnbull & Asser is the definitive British shirtmaker and a Royal Warrant holder. Since 1885, Turnbull has made luxurious shirts and ties in its own English workrooms for individuals who value quality and craftsmanship.