Kintsugi is the technique of repairing a broken object using ancient Japanese reparation, known as the art of precious scars. Not simply a form of repair, Kintsugi is a philosophy; a constant reminder to find the strength and beauty in the broken and painful parts of ourselves. Abuse in any form can shatter our sense of self and can leave victims feeling broken and alone, but support services are integral to aiding the journey of recovery, and rebuilding a sense of self-worth and healing.
To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls (25th November), support services across Wirral have collaborated to produce Beauty in the Broken adopting the Kintsugi reparation technique as a visual representation. The exhibition will be touring venues around Merseyside before arriving at the Williamson.
Women within each service were asked to take a broken bowl and glue them back together using the kintsugi technique, the cracks in the bowls representing painful life experiences of women with lived experience of domestic abuse, and the artistic expressions through decorations and glue symbolising the resilience, healing process, and the crucial services who support women to rebuild their lives.
Beauty In The Broken is designed to serve as a discussion point centred around gender-based violence, so please take the opportunity to digest the piece and reflect on the lived experience of victim-survivors who suffer at the hands of abuse and violence.
Special thanks to all the Women who have been involved including all services and support staff.
11th – 21st December
Free entry