“Strong Women” is the title and theme for an exhibition of printmaking and painting with South African artist Bev Samler. Timed to coincide with 16 Days of Action, it formed a pivot for the events happening in Exeter, UK to mark the campaign to end violence against women and girls around the world.
My central piece was a large monotype print (with watercolour paint and wax crayon) measuring 180cms x 90cms that contemplated a certain kind of feminine energy – one that is cyclical, joyful, dynamic and collaborative. I was helped out by the actors Ruth Mitchell and Michelle Ridings who permitted me to take photos of them to inspire me and work from. Key to the work is this verse from Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise”