One day only – Cliffe Castle, Keighley
26th September 11am-2pm.
We are proud to announce a special one-day showcase of Untold Stories, an immersive creative arts programme bringing together the powerful voices, experiences and artistic expressions of women who have survived domestic abuse and coercive control.
Taking place at Cliffe Castle, Keighley, for one day only, the exhibition will showcase artwork created by participants during a six-week programme centred on the theme “Self Portrait.”
Untold Stories provided a safe and supportive space for participants to explore different aspects of themselves through visual art, drama, storytelling and movement. Across six weeks, participants were gently invited to consider their physical, emotional, mental and relational selves, as well as the less visible parts of their identities and experiences.
“Creativity is often associated with artistic talent, but the Untold Stories project reminded us that creativity is much more than that.” States Haajira, Domestic Abuse Intervention Facilitator, Staying Put. “Stepping into a creative space gives us permission to bring our minds, bodies and emotions into harmony, to make sense of who we are, what we have experienced and how we see the world around us. That process requires courage. We witnessed survivors use that courage to reclaim their power, explore their truths and express parts of themselves that may have been difficult to put into words. Every artwork produced represents a journey – a visible expression of their strength and identity.”
Each session combined creative and reflective activities, with time dedicated to making individual pieces of art. Participants were free to express themselves through forms including poetry, painting, sculpture and other creative approaches. These individual creations came together to form a final collective body of work for the showcase.
The Untold Stories showcase is an opportunity to experience the work created by the women who took part and to recognise the courage involved in sharing stories that are often kept hidden.
The exhibition is not simply a collection of artwork. Each piece represents a personal journey – of reflection, survival, identity, resilience and change. Together, the works offer a powerful reminder that survivors are more than what has happened to them.
Yasmin Khan, CEO, Staying Put said:
“Untold Stories has given women the opportunity to express parts of themselves that can be difficult to put into words. Through art, movement, storytelling and creativity, participants have explored who they are, what they have experienced and who they are becoming. We are incredibly proud to showcase their work and to create a space where their voices can be seen, heard and valued.”
Visitors are invited to come along to Cliffe Castle, on 26th September to experience the exhibition and support the women whose creativity and courage have shaped Untold Stories.
You can help
You can make a difference to women’s lives by donating to Staying Put and enabling us to continue supporting people experiencing domestic abuse.