Ysgol Aberconwy Exhibition Explores Identity, Belonging and Anti Racism
“What’s It Got To Do With Me?”
On Thursday 26th February, Ysgol Aberconwy unveiled a powerful new exhibition in the foyer of Conwy County Borough Council’s Head Office, Coed Pella. “What’s It Got To Do With Me?” showcases a year‑long creative enquiry into racism, identity, and belonging. Developed through workshops with Prof. Charlotte Williams and artist Mfikela Jean Samuel, the exhibition brings together work from learners across Years 7 to 13 and reflects the school’s commitment to the Anti‑racist Wales Action Plan.
The project began with a question commonly heard in discussions about racism: “What’s it got to do with me?” By encouraging students to explore that question through lived experience, making, storytelling and listening, the project transformed classroom learning into a deeper, shared exploration of cynefin, cymuned, and fairness.
One of the pupils from Ysgol Aberconwy whose stunning creations are part of the show said: “We really enjoyed this project because it was a chance for us to share our history but also because it was inclusive of everyone and that’s exactly what anti-racism needs”
The exhibition was officially opened by Rhun ap Gareth, Chief Executive of Conwy County Borough Council, alongside Mr Ian Gerrard, Headteacher at Ysgol Aberconwy, and Paul Sampson, Curator at Oriel Colwyn. They were joined by the talented pupils and teachers who created the artworks, as well as members of Conwy Council staff, all coming together to celebrate the creative achievements on display.
Headteacher at Ysgol Aberconwy, Ian Gerrard said: “What’s it got to do with me? It’s a question people often ask when racism is discussed. It can feel uncomfortable, distant, like someone else’s issue. The aim of this project is of course to challenge that response. Because when someone does feel excluded, unseen or like they don’t quite belong, it does have something to do with all of us. Our students have opened the door for us. The question for us all is whether we’re willing to step through it. “
Paul Sampson, Curator of Oriel Colwyn said: “It’s been a real pleasure working on this project. It’s opened conversation in a way that feels safe and inclusive and allowed for freedom to explore a difficult topic through creativity.
The project has been supported by generous donations from CREST, Bryson Recycling and other partners, enabling students to work with professional materials and techniques.
Visit the exhibition in Coed Pella between 9am-5pm Monday-Friday before it closes on Friday 1st May. Photographs will be displayed at Oriel Colwyn until 14th March, when they will then be incorporated into the Coed Pella exhibition space for the remainder of the show.
For more information on the exhibition please visit What's It Got To Do With Me?
Posted on 09/03/2026