GIRLHOOD is a work-in-progress exhibition by artist Philippa James, who invites you into the gallery to experience the early stages of her tender new photographic project.

James, who has been The North Wall’s Propeller Artist for two years, began exploring the idea of GIRLHOOD during the group show Fourteen which she facilitated and took part in for Photo Oxford 2021. As a way to understand her journey of grief, she began investigating the vulnerability of adolescence as a metaphor of how she felt straight after her father died.

Since then, James has been documenting teenage girls, all born at the start of the smartphone era and in a period of transition; gradually moving away from childhood yet nowhere near adulthood.

Every adult was once a teenager, and we can all add to the conversation regarding our own teenage years. James tells us, “I, probably like yourself, was invincible as a teenager, yet now as an adult and as a mother I see how vulnerable teenagers are.” The artist’s ability to capture the essence of teenage girls allows for honest and sensitive imagery.

Exhibition Opening: Thursday 12 January 2023 6.30pm – 8.30pm (no booking required)
Please join us for drinks and discussion. Philippa will talk about the project in its current state and share her experience as a North Wall Propeller Artist.