This collaboration between the MAC, Dumbworld Productions, and Take Back the City explores two gardens - one established by the Mackie industrial family in the 1950s and another envisioned by the women of Anaka and participants in the Take Back the City initiative. The film combines footage of Mackie’s gardens with poetry readings and plant photography from an exhibition at Belfast’s MAC arts venue. It also offers glimpses of the Anaka grow garden and features educational programmes where school children shared their ideas for the ‘future garden.’
The result is an evocative and moving study of aspiration and hope, reminding us that the work we do today serves not only the present but also those who come after us.
Take Back the City is a campaign for social housing at the Mackie’s site, born from local people’s experiences of acute housing need and their determination to find solutions. The campaign unites activists of all ages, including people who are homeless, seeking asylum, sofa-surfing, or struggling with housing costs.
The Anaka Women’s Collective, based in North Belfast, empowers migrant women through community-building and education. By fostering a supportive environment, Anaka helps women share experiences, build skills, and advocate for their rights, strengthening both individuals and the wider community.