I emigrated before submission and knew I couldn't attend the exhibition. It was very liberating sending this away - not knowing who's eyes would gaze upon and who's hands would touch it. Inspired by the material (an A5 moleskin notebook) I wrote a poem entitled “Mr. Mole Skin”. An emotional response to this evolved organically, expressed through collage, text, drawing and photography. My intention was that it would be read from beginning to end like a traditional book. My notebook tells an ancient and contemporary story of one woman's struggles when battered on the inside and the out both by her partner and by life. Coming from a nameless, woman's subjective, perspective the viewer goes through a series of heartbreaking experiences with her on a journey towards realisation and eventually freedom. I was concerned with the universal conversation about domestic violence and emotional abuse. I wondered about females role in today's society. Capturing the essence of the current climate and creating art that people can relate to is something I strive towards. Vulnerability and the strength of the human spirit coexist here. Despite how unbearable or difficult life circumstances seem in the moment, I wanted to emphasise the message that there is always a CHOICE. A primitive desire to belong, connect and feel loved in contrast to a craving for self fulfilment and liberation create tension between the pages. I thought much about attachment, dependancy, empowerment and independence. I wished this to be a realistic portrayal of the very complex situation when love is simply not enough for survival. The mere act of walking away from a destructive relationship is a statement to the world that says “I will not wither, I am going to live my life”. This notebook is as much about women loving and honouring themselves and each other as it is about the tragedy of lost love.