‘Reimagine the world’: New trail of globe sculptures in Hackney puts racial injustice under the spotlight

The Reality of Being Enslaved – In Their Own Words (Mostly) by Lucy Edkins. Image: courtesy Hackney Council

A trail of sculpted globes has been unveiled throughout Hackney in a bid to put racial injustice in the spotlight.

The free trail, presented by art education programme The World Reimagined, will feature six globes in some of Hackney’s most beloved spots.

These include Dalston Curve Garden, Ridley Road market, St John’s Church and Hackney Bridge.

The sculptures will be on display until 31 October.

A Complex Triangle – Windrush 1948 by Kim Thompson. Image: courtesy Hackney Council

The World Reimagined was created to transform people’s understanding of the transatlantic slave trade.

The Hackney trail is just one being installed across the UK. Seven cities across the country will have their own trails, encouraging people from all walks of life to consider their own history and reflect on the injustices we see in our country today.

Town Hall culture chief Cllr Chris Kennedy said: “We’re delighted to be part of such an ambitious, exciting and innovative arts-led project.

“Fostering an open dialogue about our heritage and the collective history between our diverse communities is at the heart of Hackney’s values, as we look towards an inclusive future where we embrace equality and celebrate diversity.”

Abolition & Emancipation – Rise Up by Andrea Cumming. Image: courtesy Hackney Council

Cllr Kennedy added: “The trail and the programme of events lined up will bring together residents and visitors to exchange experiences, creativity, stories and ideas on some of the biggest questions for our future.

“We can’t wait for you to join us so we can reimagine the world together.”

Plans to launch the trail were revealed in March, but the globes have now been installed for residents and visitors to enjoy – and to spark thought and discussion.

The spheres have been designed by artists from all over the UK, including Hackney residents.

Schools who took part in The World Reimagined learning programme also had an opportunity to get involved, creating a similar collection of globes which will be on display at Homerton Library.

You can see a map of the trail here.