The Shrouded in Silence project was created to address the sensitive topic of death using empathy and creativity.

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​The aim:

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This groundbreaking initiative, developed by Annalees Lim and Luna Russell, founders of Whistlestop Arts, was designed to transform our understanding of death and grief through the power of artistic expression and heartfelt dialogue. It had three core aims: to courageously address the sensitive topic of death; to foster a profound sense of empathy, and to spark creativity within our communities.

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​The organisation:

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Whistlestop Arts is a community-focused organisation that fosters creativity and connection across communities. We aim to help individuals discover and express their creative potential through activities that nurture relationships, build confidence, support health, and enhance well-being.

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Directors, Annalees and Luna, bring extensive experience and a strong belief in the value of collaboration. By developing connections within the arts and cultural sector, the aim is to use the arts to connect individuals with various organisations and resources, contributing positively to their well-being.

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The activity:

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Shrouded in Silence took over four years to create. It originated from an unrelated community stitching initiative, where participants unexpectedly began sharing personal experiences of bereavement. We recognised a need for more open discussions about end-of-life choices, so we engaged with Simon Farrar at Clandon Wood Natural Burial Ground and Ali Clarke from Surrey Hills Arts. This collaboration inspired a creative endeavour focused on dialogues about death, dying, and grief.

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As we prepared to move forward, the onset of the pandemic lockdown in March 2020 underscored the urgency of these conversations, with death frequently featured in the news. During this period, Surrey-based artists Mary Branson and Karl Newman, whose mothers had recently died, shared how creativity offered solace and a means of processing their emotions, underscoring the link between art, nature, and well-being.

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The vision for an exhibition, accompanied by workshops and talks, began to take shape. Tristen Hennigs, then Arts Development Officer at Elmbridge Borough Council, recognised its significance, resulting in the generous offer of the Riverhouse Barn’s exhibition space for February/March 2024 and the involvement of additional Councils, who organised beautiful exhibition spaces for the project.

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Our first submission to Arts Council England was unsuccessful. However, bolstered by increasing support and our determination, we reapplied and successfully secured funding.

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Contributors such as Tristen Hennigs, who shared her experience of her son’s death, played a crucial role in shaping the project and a painting she had done was incorporated into the exhibition. Miles Russell’s creation of The Meadow soundscape removed the often oppressiveness of silence and added a layer of comfort, enhancing the experience of reflecting on emotive art pieces.

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There was also work by artists Annalees and Luna, along with local writers and stitchers, and the exhibition provided a safe and welcoming environment for exploring themes of mortality. The collaborative spirit with artists and end-of-life care professionals fostered engaging discussions, immersive workshops, and a captivating podcast that journeyed through West Horsley Place, crafting an inspiring and thoughtful experience for all participants.

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The project's first phase culminated in a documentary about end-of-life arrangements and how conscious choices can positively impact the environment. The documentary featured conversations with professionals, including soul midwives, funeral directors, and various leaders.

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This documentary is complemented by an insightful film about each artist's creative process for the exhibition.

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The results:

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Shrouded in Silence has been praised for its gentle approach to a universal subject, creating a platform for open and honest discussions about experiences and feelings related to death. Visitors have commended the project for its universality, beauty, and significance, with feedback including:

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‘Absolutely wonderful exhibition; the one topic that touches all humans. Thank you!’ 

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'What a beautiful exhibition – and what an important project. This subject is universal yet seldom explored in this loving, gentle way. Huge congratulations and thanks.’

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The exhibition attracted a varied audience, including individuals attending other events at the venues and those drawn by the theme's relevance. A total of 2,503 visitors explored the exhibition, while over 18,000 engaged with it online.

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By using creativity, the project offered a deeper understanding of whom to approach for information about death, dying, and grief and signposted to relevant support services. The project helped multiple partners to forge deep connections with the community.

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Regarded as a pilot project, Whistlestop Arts has exciting plans to develop Shrouded in Silence further and build upon the insights gained from the initial phase. The goal is to foster connections through shared stories by continuing these crucial conversations.

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​Tips:

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• Take time to nurture your project idea: Crafting a project outline and identifying inspiring partners who share your objectives requires patience. Additionally, you'll need to allocate time to apply for and secure funding!

• Involve diverse perspectives: Bring in a range of voices, including artists, professionals, and community members, to enrich discussions and deepen understanding.

• Utilise multiple mediums: Use various forms of art and conversation, such as films, workshops, and podcasts, to engage your audience and cater to different preferences.

• Create a safe space: Ensure participants feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics by fostering an open and supportive environment.

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Shrouded in Silence funded by:

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Arts Council England, Elmbridge Borough Council, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Mole Valley District Council, Waverley Borough Council, Community Foundation for Surrey and the Surrey Hills Trust fund.

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In-kind support from The Riverhouse Arts Centre, The Horton Arts Centre, and West Horsley Place.