The Birth Rites Collection

The Birth Rites Collection is the first and only collection of contemporary artwork dedicated to the subject of childbirth. The collection currently comprises of photography, sculpture, painting, wallpaper, drawing, new media, documentary and experimental film. 

In September 2017 Birth Rites Collection moved to King’s College, London, hosted by the Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care for the next three years and installed in and around Guy’s Campus.

Curator, Helen Knowles and Head of Midwifery, Elsa Montgomery will be launching the collection on the 25th January 2018.

Helen said:

"I am very excited to have the Midwifery Department in the Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care host the collection! Installing the artworks into different areas in Guy's Campus gives us the chance to raise very pertinent questions with staff, students and visitors from different schools about maternal mental health, intervention in birth, new birth technologies, conception, pregnancy and care work. The artworks create a space to really consider in depth, many angles and perspectives of the great tapestry of birth. It gives voice to women and carers, health professionals and those who surround women in this emotive and challenging time and looks to create conversation and an opportunity to reflect on ways in which we teach these subjects. It is my hope that the artworks will be used by everyone to further research and understanding of birth and will enhance the spaces on the campus.“

Works will be sited in New Hunts House, The Hodgkins Building, Chantler SaIL Centre and the Henrietta Raphael Building. The collection can be used as a backdrop for hosting events, talks and groups. If you are interested in using the collection to host an event then please contact helen@birthrites.org.uk

Dr Elsa Montgomery, Head of Midwifery said: 

"I am delighted that the Faculty is hosting the Birth Rites Collection. It is really good news for midwifery education and will create an enriching environment for our students and those from other Healthcare Professions. I am sure it will stimulate, challenge and lead to lively debate. I am excited about the opportunities for inter-disciplinary education and research it provides."

The Collection will open with a launch event on Thursday 25 January - click here to register.

 

 

Visit the Birth Rites Collection website.