13th September 2024
All Us Women | An exhibition by artist Janey Moffatt is now open.
All Us Women represents a year-long project the artist, Janey Moffatt, undertook, working with women across different communities and culminating in an exhibition here at Flowerfield Arts Centre and also at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea.
The project was first inspired by the tragic story of Jean McConville, and the creative project then travelled on through the lives of the women who participated in the project, many of whom experienced trauma, domestic violence, addiction, homelessness, poor mental health and healing.
Women involved in the project were given the opportunity to experience catharsis by speaking about their own journeys, whilst embracing sewing, stitching, creativity and community connectivity. Those women who did not identify as experiencing trauma contributed their work as an act of witness and solidarity.
Textiles are with us throughout our lives; holding, containing, and wrapping our bodies – fundamental to how we protect ourselves as we walk through this world. Clothing and other domestic textiles remind us of the vulnerability of the human; they are embedded with the narratives and very cells of the people who once wore and touched them.
Techniques explored include natural dyeing with plant extracts and the sewing of protective amulets ~ delicate free machine embroidery that depicts gunmen is combined alongside imagery of the Irish sun goddess Aine, and use of a particular natural colour palette which embraces hope and affirmation.
Originally from Coleraine and now based in the south of England, the artist’s explorations of these topics have taken her overseas and presented the privilege of working in countries including Afghanistan, Mexico, Bosnia, Israel & Palestine.
Janey conducted a two-week residency with us prior to the exhibition, through which she facilitated textile workshops across communities, including with local organisations such as Dungiven Regeneration Club and Women’s Aid Coleraine – these wonderful pieces can be seen in our ‘Small Gallery’ and illustrate heat transfer printing as a means of transferring their individual stories and memories from paper to fabric.
Janey’s residency has left a lasting impact—not only in the beautiful and poignant artwork on display, but in the conversations and connections sparked along the way. This is more than an exhibition; it’s a celebration of women, their stories, and the threads that unite us all.
Sincere thanks to Janey for including Flowerfield and our local communities in this heartfelt and meaningful project and to all the participants who shared their stories with us.
For more information on the project, visit www.janeymoffatt.com
