Mother

Scientists reckon that ‘mama’ is not only among the first words we learn to speak as humans, but among the first words humans ever spoke. It comes from a period referred to as ‘babbling’, a linguistics term used to describe that stage we all go through in the early steps of acquiring language, of learning how to speak. And it’s universal: ‘mama’ means ‘mother’ in Chinese, Swahili, Quechua and Polish, to name a few. It’s hard to think of a word and concept more deep-seated or provoking such profound and primal emotions. It’s said to be the word people shout on their death bed, when they sense the end is near. On a lighter note, I remember my first born used to call us both ‘Mama’ – I guess we were both performing a mothering role (although my partner had the edge, she had the food). 

And so for this year’s International Women’s Day, and for our first show open to artists from outside the Vault artist membership, it seemed fitting to pick ‘Mother’ as our theme. We asked you to submit images of, about, or created by your mother, or someone who performs the mothering role and not limited to the conventional meaning of the word mother. Seventy of you responded with paintings, sculptures, collages, photography, prints, drawings, bunting, embroidery, poetry, installations, textiles, mixed media, digital illustration, and videos. Works that celebrate, commemorate and cherish mothers. 

Welcome to ‘Mother’.