Artistic Perceptions of Poles in London

Since Poland joined the European Union in 2004 there has seen a surge in migration from Poland to the UK. There are believed to be approximately 550,000 Poles working and living in the UK seeking economic opportunities, and many are attracted specifically to London. This study offers a unique contribution to the migration literature by analysing artistic images that underscore themes pertinent to Polish migrants in London. Nineteen images are included in the analysis and all were produced by Polish students from the University of Arts in Poznan, Poland. The purpose of this analysis is to gain an understanding of how students in Poland perceive Poles currently working and living in London. Therefore, this study seeks knowledge produced through artwork associating transnational sentiment. The analysis critically reflects upon two emerged themes: (1) seeking economic opportunity (i.e. labour migration) and (2) forging presence in another locale (i.e. sense of place and communication difficulties). To further support interpretations and discussions pertaining to each theme, notions of in place/out of place are considered in accordance to discussions of geographical perception, transnational migration, and identity formation.