‘LOST GIRLS’ presented by War Child UK at Flowers Gallery
courtesy Flowers Gallery, photography by Antonio Parente (@ninoparent)
In a world grappling with the profound impact of conflict-induced displacement, the juxtaposition of ‘lost’ and ‘girls’ carries an ironic weight. It serves as a stark reminder of the countless individuals uprooted by war's relentless march. The concept of ‘lost girls’ cuts through to our very core, jolting us into a disorienting confrontation with reality. This detachment from our routine existence galvanises us, urging action to empower those who, though appearing adrift, are in fact resilient survivors, uniting in a collective pursuit of endurance.
The exhibition serves as a capsule narrative, providing a profound insight into the lived experiences of war children
The transformative potential of a creative community's intervention in spotlighting the struggles of these survivors is nothing short of extraordinary. A compelling example unfolds presently at London's Flowers Gallery in Mayfair. War Child UK, in collaboration with the Intersectional Feminist Art Collective InFems, has curated an exhibition aptly named LOST GIRLS.
(L) Plate with Flowers, by Ai Wei Wei (R) The Suitcase, by Roxanna Hall
This showcase not only gathers an array of ground-breaking works under one roof, but also offers a poignant window into the lives of individuals intimately connected to the realms of trauma, war, and refugee communities. These artists serve as living embodiments of the dedication and on-the-ground efforts actively championed by War Child, both as respondents on the front lines and as ambassadors for the communities they represent.
The exhibition serves as a capsule narrative, providing a profound insight into the lived experiences of war children, lost girls, and those courageously persevering. The works on display exude a potent, emotive intensity, often veering into harrowing territory, yet ultimately radiating a sense of hope.
It reminds us that survival hinges on the presence of opportunity.
The inclusion of works by illustrious artists such as Ai Wei Wei, along with multimedia pieces by co-curator and InFems Artist-in-Residence Nadia Duvall, herself a former child refugee, adds further depth to the exhibition. Notably, Duvall's piece featuring a suitcase with combusted interiors is a poignant standout.
(L) Fragile 12, by Tewodros Hagos (CENTRE) Post-Mortem: Tatiana, by Linder Sterling (R) Wolf CorpoReal Self, by Rebecca Fontaine
All pieces are available for purchase, with proceeds directed towards supporting War Child. Artsy has generously waived its commission for this profoundly important exhibition (a triumph in itself).
In these critical times, it is imperative that we view art not solely through the lens of aesthetic appreciation, but also through its power, significance, provenance, and narrative. While we often form personal impressions upon encountering a piece of art, this curated collection of LOST GIRLS prompts us to see beyond brushstrokes and concealed messages on canvas. It reminds us that survival hinges on the presence of opportunity. This exhibition holds vast import not only for the artists themselves, but for every lost girl persevering in the world, and for every war child whose trajectory is positively influenced by your support.
For more information, please visit Artsy