Reappropriating Cultural Memory of the Preston Lock-Out: Can Animation Be Used to Refocus and Reposition Historical Events Using Historical Visual Archives?

Abstract

Inspired by a collection of drawings in the Lancashire Archives about the Preston Lock-out of 1853–1854, I embarked on the creation of an animated film utilising the artwork. The objective was to contextualize the Irish women featured within the narrative and provide them with a backstory. Through analysis of these drawings – something that was absolutely necessary for making the film – I gained a deeper understanding of the social unrest and intricate societal dynamics prevailing in Preston during this period. By conveying this knowledge through the medium of moving images, I sought to share new insights into the lives of these women with a broader audience.