A Place Where Stories Help Others

Some stories are difficult to tell. Others are even harder to share.

For artist Margaret Woods Moore, Holywood Library became the place where deeply personal memories of caring for her mother during Alzheimer's disease were transformed into conversations that help others feel seen, understood and less alone.

Margaret's exhibition, Do you mind if I draw you?, featured a collection of sketchbook drawings created while caring for her mother throughout the Covid pandemic. What began as quiet moments spent drawing together became a powerful record of love, loss and the emotional realities of caring for someone with dementia.

The drawings were never intended to be seen by anyone else. After her mother's death, Margaret closed the sketchbook, believing it was too personal to share. It was only after encouragement from a friend, who had experienced a similar journey as a carer, that she decided the collection might help others facing the same challenges.

She wanted the exhibition to start conversations about caring, dementia and the emotional impact these experiences can have, particularly for those who may feel they are facing them alone. The artwork reflects not only her mother's story, but also Margaret's own changing emotions during an incredibly difficult time.

When deciding where to exhibit the collection, Holywood Library stood out.

Having previously exhibited as part of group exhibitions, Margaret was encouraged to consider the library by a friend who described it as a welcoming and supportive space. Although nervous about sharing such personal work, she found the staff encouraging from the very beginning.

"They couldn't have been more helpful," she says. "They were so accommodating and invited me to come in and see the space whenever I wanted. I really couldn't recommend it enough."

Margaret believes the library provided exactly the right setting for the exhibition.

Libraries are places where people come to read, learn and discover, but they are also places where communities can share experiences, find understanding and support one another. By opening its doors to exhibitions like Do you mind if I draw you?, Holywood Library created an opportunity for conversations that might not otherwise happen, reminding visitors that no one has to face life's most difficult moments alone.

Watch Margaret's video to hear more about the inspiration behind Do you mind if I draw you? and why Holywood Library was the perfect place to share such a personal story.