The exhibition features artworks made by people who have been homeless in South Wales
THERE are just two days left for people in Cardiff to see an exhibition of artwork by people who were formely homeless.
The charity, Crisis, has put on the exhibition – Home: Key to Hope – at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay but from Thursday (February 13) the work will be housed at the Skylight centre in Swansea
“The message I hope that people will take away from the Senedd exhibition is that homelessness can happen to anybody at any time,” said one of the artists in the exhibition, who did not wish to be named.
“I hope people’s attitudes toward being homeless changes, as did mine. There is still a lot of misunderstanding by people of homelessness, and I hope that they will view it with more empathy.”
A Crisis spokesperson said that when the exhibition closes the artists will decide what the next steps are.
“I’m so proud of all our members who have taken part in this wonderful exhibition at the iconic Senedd building. It is fantastic to be able to celebrate their artistic talents,” said Leanne Davies, Learning Manager at Crisis’ South Wales Skylight.
“Our members have worked so hard on this exhibition because they wanted to send a powerful message to everyone that visits the Senedd and the politicians who work within it.”
Artists created the works during sessions run by Crisis as part of the charity’s work to help members seek respite from the trauma of homelessness.
“The thought-provoking artwork they created has raised awareness of the multiple and varied challenges that people who are experiencing homelessness can face,” said Ms Davies.
“The exhibition asked viewers to reflect on what a home really means and emphasises that, for many people who are experiencing the trauma of homelessness, the key to a home unlocks so much more than a door. For many, home is the key to hope.”
Art displayed includes photography, creative writing, crafting and Gelli printing with each piece being inspired by the artist’s own experience of homelessness.
“Sharing my story – both the struggles and the triumphs – alongside others has been a powerful and empowering experience,” said Archie, another of the artists in the exhibition.
“I’m also eager to learn from the diverse stories being shared. I hope the exhibition fosters understanding and empathy, raising awareness and inspiring meaningful change.”
The Feather Wings display was a focal point of the exhibition with each feather in the wings being created by a different member of Crisis Skylight South Wales.
These wings were made to be a symbol of a fresh start for the artists and make visitors think about what having a home really means.
Crisis Skylight South Wales helps the homeless in the Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot area by helping them to find a stable home, support in accessing services and benefits and a range of wellbeing and learning opportunities.
- You can contact the Crisis media team on 020 7426 3880, media@crisis.org.uk, or 07973 372587 (out of hours) or visit their website.
