Shame Ends Here

Police data and survivor testimony made visible through research-led art and film 

Concept

The project represents a new model for trauma-informed, community-engaged art in the digital era.

Official data and personal perspectives are presented in a succinct and visually impactful way – to challenge misconceptions about sexual violence, bear witness to the hidden reality, and encourage informed dialogue.

The first phase uses published statistics from North Yorkshire Police, visualised using software developed for this project. This method makes it possible to represent the extent of the issue across other region of the world using publicly available data-sets.
All personal narratives are presented safely, in careful compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation.

The work consciously builds on the legacy of Suzanne Lacy’s art-activism “Three Weeks in May – Speaking Out On Rape, a Political Art Piece” (1977) – an influential feminist performance-piece that helped drive legislative change in California, USA.

The Art Work

Created and compiled by Make Your Mark, an interdisciplinary collective led by Lucy Churchill.

Multiple components include –

  • An annotated map showing the 1,436 incidents of s3xual violence reported in North Yorkshire over one year.

  • A Book of Testimonies with personal contributions from around the world, displayed on an embroidered cloth.

  • An evocative short film based on survivor reflections from the Book of Testimonies.

  • Text-based artwork using excerpts of survivor’s stories.

  • A pamphlet of supporting data interwoven with personal statements and additional project information.

Members of Make Your Mark include: John Beecroft, Pip White, Daniel Jeffares, Jay Allsop, Catherine May, Maggie Stirk, Sam Mills, Kat Jeffares

Thanks to all participants, testimony contributors, and supporters of the project: The Arts Council of England, York PictureHouse Cinema, Make Your Mark Rubber Stamps, MailBoxes Etc, York Digital Image, Thin Ice Press and Young Thugs Recording Studio.

 

Future presentation of the artwork + mapping of other regions

Get in contact with me –
To show Shame Ends Here at your organisation or event.
To use our methodology to map your region.
For a copy of the supporting data booklet.

This gallery features images of the artwork and project development.