An emotional public artwork celebrating the contribution of family carers is set to light up Exeter this autumn.
The large-scale light projection has been created by Exeter-based artist, Leo Jamelli, whose previous work includes The Sleeping Soldier.
The Invisible Carer will appear on the historic St Catherine’s Almshouse, on the site of the iconic ruin in the Princesshay shopping precinct, from 8.00pm on September 20 and 21.
Leo Jamelli said: “Caring is a subject close to my heart having seen first-hand the hard work that carers put in to looking after loved ones. I hope that with the Invisible Carer installation I have created an insightful piece of visual public art that will raise public awareness as well as help invisible carers to feel valued and recognised.”
Leo’s previous works raised awareness of the sacrifices made by service men and women during World War One and were projected onto landmarks in Exeter, Bristol and Plymouth.
The artwork is funded by The University of Exeter Arts and Culture Fellowship and is inspired by research currently being developed at the university, by Dr Catriona McKenzie and Dr Siobhan O’Dwy
Dr Siobhan O'Dwyer, Senior Lecturer in Ageing and Family Care, said: “There are nearly nine million carers in the UK and they save the government £132 billion each year. But this valuable work – and the toll it takes – often goes unseen. So we’re delighted that Leo’s art is literally shining a light on family carers.
''We hope it will help carers feel seen, and start conversations in the community about the value we place on care. It’s also a powerful and creative way to connect carers and the wider community with the care research currently underway at the University of Exeter.”
Dr Catriona McKenzie, Senior Lecturer in Human Osteoarchaeology, the study of human skeletal remains, said: “It has been a pleasure to work with Leo Jamelli throughout his fellowship. His work highlights the invaluable work, undertaken by family carers in households across Exeter and the UK.”
The Invisible Carer will appear on the historic St Catherine’s Almshouse, on the site of the iconic ruin in the Princesshay shopping precinct, from 8.00pm on 20 and 21 September.
