Local students inspired by visit to 7Women exhibition

Local art students from The Guernsey Institute’s creative department, Elizabeth College and The Ladies’ College visited Olympia McEwan’s 7WOMEN exhibition and spoke to the local artist and some of the women featured in the portraits.

Due to the popularity of the exhibition and thanks to support from the Royal Court, the exhibition was extended until 3^rd April.  

7WOMEN, sponsored by Deloitte, was an art exhibition highlighting the accomplishments of seven women, all with a connection to Guernsey who have all made an impact on the world through their work. 

Artist, Olympia McEwan said: ‘Speaking to the students about the portraits and the stories behind them has been really uplifting, and I have enjoyed it so much. We also had a lovely visit from the Guernsey branch of the U3A. It’s really important to inspire the islanders and that is very much what was at the heart of this exhibition.’ 

The students also had the opportunity to speak to some of the featured women, learning about their story and asking questions about their journeys. 

Dame Mary Perkins joined the Elizabeth College students for their viewing, speaking about the challenges she faced when setting up Specsavers in a male-dominated industry. Former The Ladies’ College student Jayne Ozanne was in attendance for The Ladies’ College students, and told some stories about her journey as a prominent campaigner for gay rights and equality in the Church of England. 

Olympia added: ‘It honestly wouldn’t have happened without the help of Deloitte and the firm’s sponsorship. They have taken it to the next level and raised the profile of this exhibition, which I could not be more grateful for.’ 

Jo Huxtable, Partner at Deloitte, said: ‘This exhibition has been an amazing celebration of a collection of local women who have made a real impact in our community and beyond. At Deloitte, we value the influence we have on the next generation and we are so pleased that some students were able to enjoy these portraits and hear from the subjects themselves. 

‘We hope that everyone felt invigorated by the stories of these women, and that they left the exhibition feeling inspired to follow their passions.’