Chapter 1: The Journey Through Urban Landscapes

The film begins with a serene aerial view of London's idyllic outskirts, where the soft sounds of birdsong accompany the camera as it glides over well-maintained fields and golf courses. As we move closer to the city, notable landmarks like Wembley Stadium gradually come into view.

The auditory landscape shifts, and amidst the changing scenery, a somber reminder emerges—the remnants of a devastating fire, revealing our destination: Grenfell.

Steve McQueen’s poignant short film, Grenfell, recently showcased at the Serpentine Gallery, stands as a tribute to the 72 lives lost in the tragic fire on June 14, 2017. McQueen, a director whose work never ceases to amaze, delivers an impactful narrative reminiscent of his earlier cinematic feats in the Small Axe anthology.

Watching Grenfell proved to be an emotionally challenging experience for me. There were multiple factors contributing to this difficulty, but two stand out prominently. Just days after the tragedy, I cycled to West London to lend a hand, responding to calls for volunteers. The outpouring of support was immense, with individuals traveling from afar to help. This firsthand encounter with the aftermath of the fire left an indelible mark on my memory; the image of the charred structure remains vivid even now.

The second reason for my struggle was the stark contrast between the celebration of the new monarchy and the grim reality faced by those affected by the fire. As I navigated through streets adorned with bunting and banners celebrating King Charles, I couldn’t help but reflect on the tragic fate of the 72 individuals who perished in a fire that should have been avoidable. Within the framework of the UK's entrenched class disparities, these lives were lost in a society that often overlooks the vulnerable.

Despite the heavy emotional weight, the allure of McQueen's artistry compels us to continue watching Grenfell. He has masterfully constructed a work of profound beauty amid human tragedy. The absence of sound becomes a powerful element, allowing viewers to fill the silence with their thoughts and emotions. For me, this silence conjured images of families, substandard cladding that accelerated the blaze, the destruction of homes, shattered dreams, and the pervasive sense of injustice.

A comprehensive report regarding Grenfell was published in 2019, and a criminal investigation remains ongoing. As we await a conclusive report later this year, survivors continue their arduous quest for justice, now six years on from the fire.

Upon leaving the gallery, I encountered a wall inscribed with the names of the deceased—72 names etched onto a stark white surface. Overwhelmed, I took a moment to sit and gather my thoughts, feeling a tightness in my throat as waves of emotion surged within me, making it difficult to engage with other visitors.

As I exited, the late afternoon sun painted the London skyline with warmth, a stark contrast to the somber reflections I carried. While the city celebrated the coronation, my mind lingered on the silence and the names on that wall.

Urban Diary: A Voice for the Silent

The first video, "Day in the Life Urban Dairy Shepherding," captures the daily experiences of urban shepherds, offering insight into their unique role in the city.

The second video, "Take Part / Bring Change // Urban Diary - Day 4," showcases the ongoing efforts and initiatives aimed at fostering change in urban environments.