An installation of photographs and words made by women in recovery from trauma and addiction.

Over the year, working with artists Sharon Bailey and Nicola Balfour, we have documented the beautiful landscape around The Barn at Easington - photographing, writing and sharing our lived experiences. 

 

Our exhibition is about love, nature, hope and acceptance. 

We want to break free from the stigma and misconception which surrounds our recovery from trauma, addiction and mental health. We are not our labels, and we do not belong in boxes.

 

As the seasons unfolded, we found strength and healing in the beauty and wonder of nature, finding a safe place, a lasting connection with each other and the belief that we all deserve a better future. 

 

We are Gemma Clark, Sheelagh Fraser, Carrie Ann Gordon, Sarah Gregory, Lauren Groombridge, Plum Harle, Sharon Louise,  Sara Mason, Kim Mc C, Carol Pearson, Elisha Robson, Claire Savage, Victoria Sedgewick and Marie Warby.

Acknowledgements

We have been generously supported and funded by National Lottery Community Fund, Coalfield Regeneration Trust, Durham Heritage Coast, Postcode Lottery, Point North Community Foundation and Network for Social Change.

 

Special thanks to Dr Sue Robson Tina’s Haven, Durham Free Women’s Group, Jeannie May Adam, Elaine Beard, Jyl Friggens and Ellin Hare.