Radical Care - Faye Claridge

Faye Claridge’s key interest is subjectivity and our relationships to others in the present and the past as well as connections with the natural environment and wellbeing.  She deliberately works on the margins of society, with groups who are ridiculed or feared for the image they portray of themselves. She has recently focused her work on the justice system and particularly worked in various prisons with groups of prisoners.

We Roar is an exhibition of extraordinary artwork and poetry by 40 people imprisoned in England and the USA. All were sent three pieces of inspiration and set the challenge of responding creatively. The strength of the resulting artworks and creative writing speaks with a passion and humanity that cannot be ignored. The accompanying statements are equally compelling, with some speaking directly about important social inequalities, drawing on personal experiences to vividly lay bare the shameful fact that anyone marginalised or facing prejudice is more likely to be imprisoned. Other pieces appear less political, but their concern to show humanity, vulnerability and individuality is itself a protest against stereotyping. All are important contributions in the fight against the invisibility and dehumanisation of imprisonment.

Radical Care is a programme of free public talks presented by Hereford College of Arts and Meadow Arts. It explores the question of care in the context of contemporary art and how artists are transforming their creative practices to foster well-being and connectedness.

As our world becomes increasingly precarious and complex, a sense of uncertainty and anxiety is becoming widespread, impacting general well-being both in the fabric of society and on an individual level. In this context, how might art help us reconnect, heal, and better understand one another?

The question of care has become a central concern for artists. This manifests both through the act of creating work—individually or collaboratively—and in response to a range of issues they are passionate about. These responses may take many forms: creating participatory social spaces, highlighting social neglect and marginalised communities, or addressing the undeniable need for collective care in confronting the environmental crisis. Different approaches to care through artistic practices also connect with a notable shift in the wider world of contemporary art, which increasingly understands art as a process and a relationship, rather than merely a product.

Whether you’re a practising artist, student, graduate, or simply curious about the power of art to inspire change, all are welcome to join these free public events to gain fresh insights and engage with bold ideas shaping the future of contemporary art.