In the spirit of International Women’s Day, I reflect on our shared journey towards inclusion, unity, and the celebration of every voice in our chorus.
Standing next to Gemma Nichols, CEO of Portsmouth Creates, shaping heart symbols with our hands under the banner “Committed to #InspireInclusion #InternationalWomensDay”, I am reminded of the collective power we hold when we unite for a common cause. This gesture, though simple, encapsulates a profound message of solidarity and hope. Though it is but a glimpse into a broader narrative, extending far beyond a single image.
The journey to where we stand today is not marked by sudden leaps, an “overnight success” (no, I’m not saying I am an overnight success anything – calm down), but by steadfast, plod-by-plod, largely and perilously unseen efforts. The visible achievements are mere iceberg tips atop a vast endeavour, underpinned by dedication, hard work, single-mindedness, and an unyielding spirit (aka just a tiny bit stubborn).
My journey from trying so hard to fit in at a Suffolk all-girls school, to valuing my own uniqueness, highlights a common challenge. Recognising that true acceptance comes not in conformity but in embracing our distinct identities, has been a long and arduous, yet freeing path.
This path is fraught with obstacles, as evidenced by the initial rejection from the Women In Art (WIA) exhibition run by The Grateful Arts Club and Hannah Hoorn at Aspex Gallery. Yet, this setback paved the way for an incredible opportunity at Hotwalls Studios, thanks to the support of Liz Linfield, Charlie Leftley, Annie Flitcroft, Amy Standing and the Hotwalls Studios fellowship. It is at Hotwalls’ Round Tower that I showcased “Onward, Together”, my A2(ish) sized, 12-layers reduction lino print created in just 7 days, for WIA and International Women’s Day – alongside the wonderful and skilled Hotwalls Studios artists. The lino print is a visual commentary; a universal call to action for empathy, understanding and urging us to overcome our differences and the divides separating us.
The narrative of overcoming challenges, embracing one’s story, and stepping into the light is not mine alone but is shared by so many. It speaks to the resilience required to forge a path of authenticity and the transformative power of community support. The story unfolds in a way that resonates with the essence of our collective endeavour – a movement that is less about individual blood/sweat/tears efforts, and more towards our interconnected journeys.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us reflect on the depth and breadth of our shared experiences. Our progress is a richly-woven, multi-coloured tapestry, full of countless individual threads, each contributing to a larger picture of inclusion, diversity and equality. This day is a reminder of our ongoing journey, a celebration of how far we have come, and a call to action for the future we can build together.
As we ponder the ideals of inclusion and unity, it is vital to acknowledge that we are still far from our goal. This requires more than just annual celebrations; it demands a daily commitment to change, and effort to commit from each of us. Yes, representation matters. Yes, the use of my image under the “inspire inclusion” banner here may also serve as a reminder that real inclusion goes beyond representations. It must become a lifestyle – a continuous pledge that we all make to ensure an equal future for the coming generation(s). Let’s not settle on symbolic gestures alone. Instead, let’s commit to making inclusion a part of who we are, every day. This is our shared responsibility.
Together, we not only simply marking a day on the calendar – we are shaping the very fabric of our society for generations to come.
Onwards, together,
your printmaking guide,
Nusye
