Welcome to the Self Portrait Studio!

A portrait is a representation of a person, a self-portrait is a portrait of an artist by the artist.

Becoming a mother is a very intense physical experience, it makes us consider our bodies differently, become more aware of our bodies and how our bodies change. There are many beautiful self-portraits in Acts of Creation that artist mothers made of themselves; reflecting on their experiences as mothers. Maybe making these self-portraits helped them to see themselves more clearly, or to understand how they had changed and grown.

Inspired by the exhibition Acts of Creation: On Art and Motherhood, why not pick up a drawing board and make your own self-portrait? You don’t have to be a mother yourself, think about these questions:

- Have you had an experience that changed you?
- Can you remember an experience that helped you grow, or that made you see yourself differently?

You can use a mirror to draw and paint yourself.

Think about your pose - what does it convey?
Could you sit in a way that looks
Powerful... Relaxed... Funny... Goofy... Tired

Please try to leave this space as you found it and let staff know if any materials have run out.

A space to feed and take a break

Babies and their adults can pull the curtain on this quiet nook and have a feed, read a book, take a rest. Please enjoy the resources and add some if you're involved in another group not mentioned here.

We hope this space grows throughout the season and reflects the diversity of supports for mothers throughout the region.

Please be careful, this sink is for art materials, water and paint only. Do not drink it or pour other liquids down the sink! This bin is for art materials only, if you need to dispose of a nappy, please use the toilets on the lower ground floor, take the lift to -1.