Red Threads - A Reflection

The timing of this exhibition couldn’t have been better. Thanks to the Lewisham Council Black 365 Grant, we were able to bring to life something I’ve dreamt about for years which is an exhibition that gives voice to those who are often unheard.

We created Red Threads because our community needs it. Black women in the UK are four times more likely to die in childbirth, often face medical gaslighting, and experience longer diagnostic delays for conditions like endometriosis. Menstrual and reproductive health are still taboo in many of our homes — a silence that can stop us from seeking the help we deserve.

But our stories are more than statistics. Red Threads shares stories of pain, love, strength, and joy. It’s about how we endure, heal, and celebrate ourselves along the way.

Watching people engage with the installation — reading, writing, and tying their own threads — made me realise the depth of collective emotion this space held. Visitors shared stories of joy, despair, and beautiful memories.

Last weekend we hosted a full 2-day public viewing, and I was moved to tears reading some of the incredibly raw and real reflections people chose to share.

We even provided a journaling room for those who needed a quiet space to reflect away from the main exhibition — a small sanctuary for processing some of the sensitive themes. One message in the journal read:

“Thank you for creating a space for white women to learn how to support and recognise better. Beautiful representation.”

That message captured exactly what I’d hoped for — to spark empathy, understanding, and dialogue across our experiences. I’m so grateful to have achieved just that.

To everyone who made this possible — our incredible contributors @ibijoke.img, @shotby.drey, @tajaibrown.art, and @wipbee.

Our set designer @rjdznz, and support @clotheschameleon.

The delicious rum punch by @drinkdodo, @cheflb, Nardia, and Kesean.
@hannahhardiing for beautifully documenting the evening.

And last but not least, @arthublondon — thank you from the bottom of my heart.

❤️‍🔥 Red Threads: A community storytelling exhibition exploring Black menstrual, fertility, and maternal health.