Hi ! MEDIA RELEASE
Jigsaw Family Services
24 May 2010
Artist challenges public debate on child protection through exhibition
Media reports of child abuse and neglect have prompted Christchurch artist Frances Paul to paint a series of works aimed at challenging public views on child abuse.
Frances Paul’s work will be exhibited at the Salamander Gallery in Christchurch from 1 – 20 June 2010. The gallery is open 7 days from 10am to 5pm.
Ms Paul says she began working on her paintings after hearing about cases of child abuse and neglect such as that of Rotorua toddler Nia Glassie, and the Kahui twins who died of horrific head injuries.
Frances Paul is hoping to encourage individuals to confront their own personal responsibility and response to the dangers that threaten our children.
“The subject disturbs us to the core of our being. Understanding eludes us and we are inclined to respond by setting aside thoughts about it until the next report,” Frances says.
“Too often we rely on professionals that are meant to act as watchdogs and protect the vulnerable. As a result we have become complacent and neglectful of our responsibility to one another,” she says.
A portion of the proceeds of the exhibition will be donated to Jigsaw Family Services to help the network with its family violence and child abuse prevention work.
Jigsaw Chief Executive (Strategic Operations) Liz Kinley says “We think it’s great that Frances has done this work and cares so much about preventing child abuse and encouraging everyone to get involved.”
Details: Opening event 5.30pm Monday 31 May. Salamander Gallery, Arts Centre, Hereford Street, Christchurch
Contact: Frances Paul 03 313 3258, Anne Munro, Salamander Gallery, 03 365 9279
