In my own words
2024, produced as one of three works for the end of year show at Open School East.
Furniture, ceramics, photocopies, print, flowers, biscuits.
Based on the belief that conversation and connection can be transformative, and inspired by the sense of care and protection associated with sharing food around a kitchen table, this installation presents an anonymous exchange facilitated by me, between staff and people that use the services at The Beacon Mental Health Day Centre.
The workshops took place over lunch, with food, coffee, and doughnuts, inviting participants to respond in their own words to a single question: if you could ask any questions or make any statements to members of staff or to the people that use the services at The Beacon, what would you ask?
The exchange concluded with sharing the responses and inviting participants to create a piece of physical art or submit a track to a playlist inspired by the process.
This installation showcases these elements, while recognising that the primary artistry and impact of the work, lies in the courageous sharing and reflection of personal expressions on deeply intimate aspects of life.
If you could ask a question or make a statement to the mental health services in your area, what would you ask?
