Sofia Barton’s work is a vibrant act of reclamation and joy. Through rigorous research into the Tyne and Wear Archives and a curated collection of oral histories, Barton unearths the “Trailblazers" or the unsung icons who shaped the North East’s social, political and scientific soul.
By blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary storytelling, Barton’s visual identity, which is deeply rooted in her Punjabi heritage, celebrates an intersectional, anti-fascist and anti-racist history. Through a palette of radiant, defiant colours, she honours those who fought for a more equitable world.
Koon Kiu and her husband Peter Cheng, started Chinatown in 1978, when they opened the Wing Hong Chinese Supermarket on Stowell Street, helping it become a vibrant cultural hub.
Signed by the artist A3 Print, unframed
A Space for Community - In the spirit of the "Trailblazers" project, the ‘community plinth’ features unique artworks for sale from local community and charitable organisations connected to both Baltic and Nexus. This initiative provides a vital platform for marginalised voices, including disabled and neurodiverse artists, to share their own heritage and creativity. By highlighting these often-overlooked perspectives, the space becomes a true celebration of the North East’s diverse social fabric, ensuring that joy and artistic expression are accessible to all.
