7women exhibition

7WOMEN is a brand new art exhibition highlighting the accomplishments of seven local women who have all made an impact on the world through their work.

The seven portrait paintings, which make up this public art project, are by local artist, Olympia McEwan. The exhibition, at Guernsey’s Royal Court, opens to the public on International Women’s Day, Friday 8 March and is sponsored by Deloitte Guernsey.

The subjects of the portraits include an internationally renowned scientist, a prominent campaigner for gay rights and equality in the Church of England, the first member of the House of Lords from the Channel Islands, a founder of a Guernsey based charity, the first female H.M. Procurer to the States of Guernsey, an international singer songwriter, and the co-founder of Specsavers.

The artist, portrait subjects and Deloitte are working with local schools to allow students to view the portraits and interview some of the women featured in the exhibition.

Artist, Olympia McEwan said: “This exhibition is a personal campaign as well as a public art project. It aims to inspire girls and women of all ages to realise their potential, their authentic selves and ambitions. This is a legacy project and an historical record of the achievements of this group of seven women, all with connections to our island home of Guernsey.

“Some have led their professions, some have broken new ground, some have inspired change through relentless endeavour. I chose them all for their outstanding achievements.

“The aim of this project is threefold. Firstly, it’s a showcase for my latest portrait paintings in my series of amazing women which began in 2016. Secondly, I’d like the space to be used for various local groups and schools to gather and to discuss how to inspire women of all ages to realise their potential. And finally, to promote the need for portrait paintings of high profile women in public spaces in Guernsey.

Partner at Deloitte, Jo Huxtable said: “Deloitte Guernsey is honoured to support this extraordinary and creative celebration of seven amazing women, all from our small island of Guernsey.  Olympia’s art has captured beautifully the physical characteristics of these women as well as the unique and inspiring essence of their accomplishments; her vision, to shine a light on their achievements through this public art project, should be enjoyed and applauded.

“At Deloitte, we try to make an impact that matters, and this exhibition does exactly that. We hope people not only appreciate the skill and artistry of the paintings, but also feel invigorated by the stories of these remarkable women.’

The exhibition is open to the public on 8 March, International Women’s Day, Saturday 9 March 11am – 2pm, and will be open Monday to Friday thereafter, during working hours until Thursday 21 March. It will be held in the Great Hall foyer of the Royal Court. It is a public exhibition with no entry charge and is fully accessible to all.