South London Women Artists (SLWA) is an acclaimed group of over 80 women who live and work in South London. This month SLWA is showcasing the work of 18 women in their latest exhibition ‘Everyone Reflects Light’ to support this year’s theme for World Mental Health Day (11th October), ‘making mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority’.
Artists include: Helen Adie, Michelle Baharier, Pat Cove, Claire Dorey, Jo Gibbs, Julia de Greff, Sam Haynes, Elena Howard, Ekaterini Koliakou, Angele Lautier, Ky Lewis, Yoke Matze, Rachel Reid, Sonia Thomas, Veena Scialó, Mariona Ranera, Asia Nowicki and Maria Beddoes.
Baharier’s ‘How do I make you feel’ is a beautiful coloured face yet juxtaposed by pain, she says ‘I painted it as it was how I felt when I opened the door to people bringing me food, as my partner had Covid before the first lockdown and was very ill’. She says she felt that she needed to put a black cross on her door and ring a bell, as in medieval times, to warn people.
Each artist interprets their world differently, exploring emotional states, often through their own lived experience, expressed with skill and liberating honesty, through painting, printmaking, photography and sculpture. As we step forward toward new challenges, this exhibition reminds us that our inner strength can shine a light on the pathway ahead.
Michelle Baharier, SLWA acting chair, says: ‘the exhibition brings a sense of optimism and resilience, with many artists offering bold statements in colour and form, as we move on from the pandemic, while others are still exploring the challenges of a difficult winter ahead.’
The Paxton Centre, 52 Anerley Hill, Crystal Palace, SE19 2AE
7th – 31st October, 10 – 5pm
(Private view 7th October 7-10pm)
