“Pioneering.” Dani Garavelli, Scotland on Sunday
The triumph of new motherhood. Stillbirth. Full-time fatherhood. Single parenthood. Miscarriage. Childrearing in a warzone. Speech development. Postnatal depression. Infertility. Adoption. The imperfect child.
These are just some of the themes dealt with by Project AfterBirth; the first ever international open art exhibition on the subject of early parenthood, which launched at White Moose gallery, UK, in October 2015.
“A brilliant collection of pieces. Emotional, thought-provoking and relevant.”
Tracy H, midwife
Each of the 39 works in the exhibition – which spans the visual, performance, literary, film and digital arts – were made in the 21st century by contemporary male and female artists from all over the world to express their personal pregnancy, birth or new parenthood experiences. Largely due to the perceived inferiority of early parenthood as a subject for art, most of the works had not been shown publicly before.
“I just went to Tate (Modern) last week, and all I can say is that I enjoyed the Project AfterBirth exhibition a lot more.” 16 yr old male art student
At times hilarious and at times deeply moving, the exhibition left a lasting impression on parents, but also resonated with many visitors in terms of their own individual birth and childhood journeys.
“I leave in awe, full of joy, praise and with a huge lump in my throat.” M Cartridge, doula
The exhibition is also a first in demonstrating the profound influence pregnancy, birth and new parenthood experiences can have on the practice of 21st century female and male artists.
“A far reaching, meaningful project. This feels ground breaking and essential” T Morrissey, artist
DIEP is currently trying to coordinate an international tour for Project AfterBirth. If you or a venue near you may be interested in hosting the exhibition, please download Project AfterBirth’s Touring Pack:
“Superbly curated with intellectual and emotional punch.” Kate S, Artist