We open our arms to you.

In August, Get It Done Director Mimi Dearing was invited on an artist residency at Narva Artist Residency in Estonia, delivering a public arts and placemaking project for the Kulgu neighbourhood.

Located on the Estonian-Russian border, Narva is a unique intersection of diverse cultures and histories, making it a perfect canvas for exploring themes of belonging, national identity, and the impact of geopolitical tensions and the forced migration of Ukrainian communities.

Created over the course of 12 days of community conversations, research, workshops and engraving experiments, this piece invites the Russian, Estonian, and Ukrainian communities of Narva to come together and connect, highlighting the Kulgu neighbourhood as a sanctuary for residents, visitors, and those seeking safety alike.

Crafted from rusted metal, the artwork blends subtly into its environment, activating the space with a hidden artistic message. When sunlight strikes it, the hand engraved shadow drawing shimmers into view.

Mimi's community-focused practice aims to foster warmth and connection amongst people:

"While this message of optimism encourages acts of kindness, I understand the complexities of this context on the Russian border, where it could be seen as reminiscent of Soviet-style socialist realism - blind optimism in the face of deep-rooted community tensions.

Amid recent race riots and violence in the UK, I’ve felt a deep sense of disconnection from my community and heartbreak for my home. I hope this message transcends its local origins and encourages people everywhere to embrace each other. Love remains at the root of many of the world’s challenges."

Watch Mimi's video diary of her time in Estonia! Click here.

This project was funded by the British Council and Narva Artist Residency. Immense thank you to all the people involved in bringing this incredible project to life! 💛