Three unique brooches come together to represent a group of displaced people.

Unfortunately, large groups of refugees exist worldwide. Joining such a group often results in anonymity and invisibility within society. My aim is to humanise the individuals behind the statistics reported in the media.

I observed diverse textures and colours on the backs of white-glazed tile shards, which I collected during walks where they served as demolition waste for path reinforcement. By grinding these shards, I transformed them into cabochons. The white sides create a unified group of simple ovals, while the backs ensure each cabochon is unique. This approach symbolises the individuality of people behind the statistics. When worn, the portraits hang below the pin, reflecting the uncertainty refugees face.

A set of three brooches and a plinth make up one object. The pedestal gives the brooches a bust-like feel. The poem I wrote for this piece has nine stanzas. I made nine brooches in total, grouping them into three sets to create three objects.

I submitted this work to Eureka, a competition organised by the gallery Friends of Carlotta for their 25th anniversary. Although the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the cancellation of the contest and exhibition, an online catalogue was published. To view the contributions of the 86 other participants, you can download the Eureka catalogue here.

I also wrote the BLOG Eureka about the creation of this series and the work process.