You Cannot Pour From an Empty Cup - Honouring Carers in Theos Exhibition

‘You Cannot Pour From an Empty Cup’: Sources of empathy, compassion and love in Care

I recently had the huge pleasure of being commissioned by Theos to produce a series of portraits of carers to accompany their report on adult social care, and the tensions between love, duty, and the economy. The quote referenced in the series’ title comes from the report, highlighting the fact that we as a society should not expect carers to have limitless stores of resolve and energy to look after others. We ought to be finding ways to support their needs.

It was an honour to spend time hearing the stories of six wonderful carers - some who care for loved ones, and some who care in a paid professional capacity - and to create portraits to platform their dignity, strength and humility. The brief set by Theos had at its heart references of church iconography, not to suggest that carers are all saints, but instead to state that they are worthy to be seen as subjects of art.

The launch and exhibition took place at the beautiful Guild Church of St Katharine Cree, in the City of London. The church has a specific mission to tend to the needs of workers in the City, and so served as a great partner to honour the precious work of carers. Rev. Josh Harris noted that when they first started to have conversations with local workers about what they needed, the key response was that the wanted to be seen. It was lovely to have him say that the portrait series was a wonderful way to encourage people to see and appreciate those who are doing such vital and precious work.

The free exhibition will be open for viewing at the Church of St Katharine Cree (86 Leadenhall Street, London, EC3A 2BJ) until Friday 24th May 2024.

Thanks to my friend Esther for making me stand for a photo!