What is The Big 30?

The Big 30 Archive celebrates 30 years of award-winning creative arts company Heart n Soul. As part of the celebrations, people with and without learning disabilities have been recorded talking about their lives, creating a record of learning disability culture. They also had their portraits taken with photographer Franklyn Rodgers.

What is an archive?

A collection of objects, sound recordings, films, photos or written stories. An archive can be online, on a website or in a building like a museum.

Who is involved?

30 people and groups made up of Heart n Soul artists, staff, volunteers and participants with and without learning disabilities. They represent all the different parts of Heart n Soul and the impact they have had on our development.

What’s the aim of The Big 30 Archive?

It is the first of its kind where people with learning disabilities talk about their lives in their own way. It gives everyone the opportunity to see, discover and hear previously hidden stories that are part of history. It explores how disabled and non-disabled people can be and work together. The archive also helps to build a wider picture of the different communities and the on-going social changes happening in South-East London.

How will we share the archive?

• As well as listening to the stories, all the portraits and clips of the interviews can be seen and heard on the Archive page here.

• The whole archive will be permanently added to the Wellcome Collection in 2018 so everyone can learn more about this rich and diverse culture.

Who are Heart n Soul?

Heart n Soul is an award-winning creative arts company who believe in the power and talents of people with learning disabilities. We offer opportunities for people to take part in creative activities, train in a new skill or develop their artistic talents.  Deptford has been our home for 30 years.