The Flowers Still Grow is a celebration and recognition of a strong and beautiful community that deserves to live well in a place where people can truly blossom and thrive.

After many decades of decline and neglect, Anfield was further hit by Brexit, the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. It is in the top 10% of deprived areas in the UK, according to the Index of Multiple Deprivation. Austerity has led to the local high street disappearing, replaced by a long line of cold, metallic shutters. Boarded-up windows and derelict buildings undermine the community and make people feel that they do not matter. But in this urban, broken landscape, between the cracks in the bricks and on stagnant pieces of unused land, flowers still grow. The flowers, like the people of Anfield, grow despite their surroundings.

There are two stories to be told. The story of a place in which the local environment and economy are in decline and living can feel precarious. And the story of a local community that brings life, vibrancy and connection to where they live. Every face in this exhibition represents a unique story. The community grows in strength and is collectively determined, just like the wildflowers that also make this place their home.

Like the flowers, the people are what make Anfield beautiful.

Part of The People of Anfield. An artistic project engaging local people of all backgrounds and ages to share conversations and ideas about the Anfield area – past, present and future. The project has been developed and delivered by photographer Emma Case and writer Pauline Rowe through photography, writing and discussion.

Part of a two year socially engaged arts project in Anfield commissioned by Open Eye Gallery and Culture Liverpool.

The Flowers Still Grow was exhibited at Open Eye Gallery from 12th September until the 27th October 2024.

Pressed Flower Portraits

Working with pressed flowers is a delicate art; they are beautiful yet fragile. Each one is carefully positioned, building the frame slowly around the person, requiring a gentle and attentive touch. The artist was struck by the similarities between the delicate and dedicated process of flower collaging and her time spent with the people of Anfield. The act of creating these pieces felt like paying homage to the community she had been welcomed into.

Much like these pressed flowers, our communities and the places they call home need to be held with respect. Sensitively and with care.

'Terraces', a short film exploring the local built and natural environment, shared through the voices of Anfield people. The poem was written by Pauline Rowe, and the film was made and directed by Emma Case.