From South London to Jamaica: Illustrating Nostalgia in the 'Caribbean Pantry'

Growing up in South London with Jamaican roots means that identity, for me, has always been about two places at once.

I'm Emily Chin, the illustrator and founder behind Chin Chin Studio. I typically illustrate local landmarks and iconic locations in South London that evoke nostalgia or cherished memories. Being born and raised here, a large part of my cultural identity is tied to the sense of belonging I have for South London. Whilst I celebrate loudly my love of South London and all of the unique cultural nuances I am lucky to experience by living here, I equally and proudly celebrate my Jamaican heritage - acknowledging how much it is embedded in how I was raised and the cultural norms that I still proudly own today.

My grandparents and my dad came to the UK in the 60s and brought with them an abundance of traditions, recipes and objects. From dutchy pots to colourful fruit-shaped fridge magnets, the more I shared my own experience growing up with friends who also grew up in Caribbean households, the more I started to perceive these 'mundane', everyday items as small, but really sweet nods to my Jamaican culture in my everyday life.

This is where the idea of Caribbean Pantry came from. Those same conversations with friends sparked that warmth and nostalgia, making me really want to bring these feelings to life through illustration.

There are many items that would typically be found in a Caribbean pantry - everyday essentials even, like all purpose seasoning, scotch bonnet, plantain, saltfish, tinned corned beef… the list goes on. I aimed to create a series that could be a nostalgic nod to the everyday, subtle Caribbean influences that are still deeply woven into our homes, even when we are 4000 miles away from our roots. I began illustrating these items individually, but soon realised that, when displayed together, they tell a broader story with more memories attached. This is what led to the final piece, Caribbean Pantry.

The Caribbean Pantry is a series that includes the illustration in print format, a kitchen tea towel, a blank greetings card, and individual vinyl stickers. This was done so there is something you can gift, something you can share your memories on, and something you can keep for yourself.

My hope is that these traditions continue on, and that this collection brings back a memory or two along the way.