Oxford women take centre stage in the council chamber

Women who live and work in Oxford have taken centre stage in Oxfordshire County Council’s council chamber as part of a photography exhibition celebrating the city’s community.

The council chamber at County Hall is displaying one hundred portraits by Oxford artist and photographer Philippa James, whose project was created to connect with, and learn from, women across the city.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, invited Philippa to exhibit the work in the chamber as part of a wider aim to make the council feel more representative of the people it serves.

Councillor Bearder said: “The council chamber is where important decisions are made for communities across Oxfordshire, so it is right that the space should better reflect the people we serve.

“Philippa’s portraits are a powerful reminder of the stories, experiences and voices that make up Oxford’s community. I hope this exhibition will be the first of many opportunities for schools, community groups and organisations to use this space to share their work and tell their story.”

The portraits were on display as councillors met today (Tuesday 8 September), giving members the opportunity to learn more about the women involved and the conversations behind the images.

Councillors were also invited to take a copy of the accompanying book, published by The North Wall Arts Centre, which features all one hundred portraits, each paired with a short quote drawn from Philippa’s conversations with the participants.

It is hoped that, in future, schools and organisations from across the county will be able to use the meeting space to display their work and share stories from their communities.

Find out more about the exhibition by visiting Philippa James’ website.

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