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Murals celebrate creative talents of homeless women
Added: (Tue Sep 20 2005)
House of St. Barnabas in Soho
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 21 SEPTEMBER 2005
Murals celebrate creative talents of homeless women
A collection of life-size murals created by homeless women will be unveiled Tuesday 27 September in the garden of the House of St. Barnabas in Soho [1] in London. The murals showcase the artistic talents, views and aspirations of women overcoming poverty, violence, persecution and family breakdown. They were designed and painted by residents to commemorate their time at the House of St. Barnabas.
As part of the House's life skills programme, the women -- many who had never painted before -- participated in a class taught by Dan Wheale of the Mary Ward Centre.
"It was my first art project and I loved it," said resident Elany Wayassa. Former resident Panagiota Dimitriadou said creating the murals made her feel useful. "When you don't have money, a job or a home and you don't know where your life is going, it's important to feel useful," she said. "I learned a lot from this."
Vibrant flowers, symbols, people and nature dominate the panels designed in a spirit of cooperation and creativity. "Women who have been in temporary accommodation for several years have left something permanent at the House of St. Barnabas," said Eluned Santos, Chief Executive Officer.
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Contact: Eluned Santos
020 7434 1896
House of St. Barnabas in Soho
1 Greek Street
London W1D 4NQ
Notes to editors:
The House of St. Barnabas provides accommodation and support to 39 homeless women. Residents are supported in finding a permanent route out of homelessness with help from key workers, life skills classes and counselling. The murals will be unveiled during a celebration Tuesday 27 September at 6 p.m. at the House of St. Barnabas. www.houseofstbarnabas.org.uk. Attendance by prior arrangement.
2. Interviews with the consent of residents can be arranged.
3. Photo opportunities: the murals in the 18th century gardens of the House of St. Barnabas.