Women’s Voices: Unheard is a powerful and deeply personal exhibition created by women attending the Donegal Women’s Centre Domestic Abuse Trauma Psychotherapy and Counselling Service.
Developed as part of the international 16 Days of Action Against Gender Based Violence, the exhibition amplifies the voices of women who have lived through domestic abuse and the silence, shame, and stigma that so often accompany it. Through their artwork, they share their stories, reclaim their voices, and challenge the societal norms that too often keep abuse hidden.
The women involved in the project expressed that this exhibition matters because domestic abuse is too often hidden behind closed doors. They want the public to understand that abuse is not limited to physical harm, it can also include coercive control, manipulation, psychological abuse, and many other forms of harm. They speak of how shame and fear keep victims silenced and trapped in abusive relationships, and how women must be listened to and believed.
They also highlight that women are silenced not only by perpetrators, but by social stigma, disbelief from others, and institutional failings that allow abuse to continue.
“Speaking out takes courage. This exhibition is about breaking silence, letting our unheard voices be finally heard, for ourselves and for those who can’t yet speak.”
Putting these truths into the open is not easy. Sharing them through art is both a brave act and an act of hope. Each piece represents a step toward healing, awareness, and empowerment.
The artists hope that Women’s Voices: Unheard will help others recognise the signs of abuse, begin conversations that matter, and stand in solidarity with those who cannot yet speak.
All artwork in the exhibition is anonymous, to protect the confidentiality and safety of the women involved.
The project has been guided and supported by Dr. Caroline Burrow, Clinical Psychologist and Domestic Abuse Trauma Psychotherapist at Donegal Women’s Centre. Caroline, who has herself experienced domestic abuse, has dedicated both her personal and professional life to helping others heal from trauma. Her empathy, understanding, and lived experience have been instrumental in creating a safe space for women to express themselves through art.
Mary Herlihy, Manager of Donegal Women’s Centre, expressed her pride and admiration for both Caroline and the women involved, “We are so proud of the women who have shared their stories so bravely. Caroline brings incredible empathy and understanding to her work, both as a professional and as someone who has experienced domestic abuse herself. This exhibition is a powerful reminder that healing and hope are possible when women are heard, believed, and supported.”
The Donegal Women’s Centre would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to the team at the Regional Cultural Centre (RCC) for their support and for exhibiting this important work.
Women’s Voices, Unheard invites the public to witness, to listen, and to stand with survivors. It is both a testament to the courage of women who have endured, and a call to action for all of us, to build a community where women’s voices are valued, believed, and never silenced again.
The Women’s Voices, Unheard Exhibition is now open until December 20 at The Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny. We welcome everyone to come along to show support.
