International Migrants Day 2024: Multi-award-winning filmmaker and graduate enriches migrant communities through arts and film
In honour of International Migrants Day 2024, we are proud to highlight the work of Dr Evripidis Karydis (Media, Culture and Heritage, PhD, 2020), a lecturer in Film Practice. Dr Karydis uses art and film to create safe spaces where diverse communities can connect and share their experiences while raising awareness of the challenges migrants face.
18 December 2024
Observed annually on December 18, International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations to recognise the contributions and resilience of migrants worldwide. The day emphasises inclusivity, addresses the obstacles migrants face, and encourages open dialogue on migration policies.
Dr Karydis completed his PhD in Film Practice with the School of Arts and Cultures and has built an extensive portfolio of award-winning documentaries. His work focuses on the unique opportunity filmmakers have to explore sociological and political issues through documentaries, while highlighting the importance of building inclusive societies and celebrating the enrichment that diverse populations bring to communities globally.
At the beginning of November, Dr Karydis led a Documentary Workshop in Glasgow, attended by refugees and asylum seekers. The workshop aimed to provide resources and a creative space for marginalised communities—primarily asylum seekers and refugees—who often lack access to artistic opportunities due to barriers like cost and language.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr Karydis commented:
“It was great to see this community engage in film in a way they hadn’t previously thought possible. Art is a powerful tool to link ideas and actions. We’d love to work more with underrepresented communities to enrich their lives with such experiences.”
Following the workshop was the screening of Dr. Karydis’ latest documentary, Trash Walk. The film has already been selected for five film festivals, including three in Greece, one in Manchester, and one in Italy. Trash Walk follows Christina Kyriakidou during the Christmas period as she performs street art to protest consumerism.
More recently, Trash Walk received an Honourable Mention at the Activists Without Borders Film Festival and will also be presented with the Honorary Award for Efforts in Social Filmmaking, recognising its commitment to addressing social issues through art and film.
Engaging Communities Through Arts and Film
The workshop following the screening was facilitated by Christina Kyriakidou, an art educator and artist who runs weekly sessions for refugees and asylum seekers through the Central and West Integration Network (CWIN).
We are proud of Dr. Karydis’ dedication to fostering inclusivity and supporting migrants through the transformative power of art and film. His work reflects our shared commitment to building bridges across communities and celebrating the diversity that enriches society.
