For many years I have been interested in women across the world: their work, their lives, their secrets and their communities. I am fascinated by women who need and form strong bonds and communities especially Moslem women.
I also love Islamic design and some months ago I started to make ceramic houses that reflect this style.
As this exhibition loomed nearer I started to ask myself how I might weave together these interests. It was like putting together the pieces of puzzle: I had the houses. I had female figures from a slip cast mould. How could I weave these into a meaningful installation?
Finally the answer was simple.
I asked my women friends for their help by writing the words that you see on the plinths and pillars: a stream of consciousness, a phrase, a poem or a few words that were meaningful to them. I wanted words from their heart. Maybe their writing would reflect their relationships with families and friends, particularly women. I wanted this to be a celebration of their womanhood with its joy and sadness.
What you see here in figures, words, houses and veils is my interpretation of the heartfelt words they gave me. I love its rich metaphors within the colour, fragility of the figures and strength of the dwellings. I love how it responds to and celebrates the community of women who are my friends.
I hope this work resonates with you as it does with me.
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