‘Proud Ngemba woman, proud mother of two, lived experience advocate, survivor of all forms of childhood abuse, including mental, physical, spiritual, sexual bestiality, and child pornography. I came from a home that was dysfunctional, from neglect, and lived in poverty. I found my mother dead when I was 14. I was unwanted, unloved, unseen. My self-worth sometimes does not exist. I have moved 45 times in my life, for many reasons, many crises involving no money, no food, domestic abuse, drugs, alcohol, evictions, divorce, and much more…
– Roshee
- Title: Baa Baa Black Sheep
- Artist: Roshee
- Year: 2025
- Medium: Acrylic on canvas
The white dots represent people who have the resources and support and love and are able to live a decent life. They look after each other. Not me, I’m ignored, I’m unseen. It’s the black dot that is me, feeling lonely, isolated, alienated, unloved, different and freaky. However, being one of a kind has motivated me to get the negative thoughts and feelings out of my body. This artwork is an odious piece that helps my story be understood. Creating this piece of artwork has given me a reflection on my life, which has been different at times, allowing my body, mind and spirit to heal with each dot and stroke.
Being born into a family that has been tortured was like a plant that sits in the same spot and is never watered. Dehydrated, weak, sick yet still having strength to survive. To break the intergenerational trauma that was passed onto me I worked extremely hard for years to be the best mother I could be. I was determined my children would/will have a different upbringing. I had no idea how to raise a baby so I purchased a text book that told me exactly what to do.
My children are grown now and both my son and daughter have degrees in the health industry. They are happy and I am proud. I am proud of myself, of my awesome achievements to give my children the best life!’
This UNSEEN art installation is beneficial for its participants and for the public because it allows a safe, friendly space to be able to educate and converse with people.
We all have stories to tell. Homelessness does not discriminate. Be kind.’
– Roshee