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MOMENTO MORI
To live is to move toward the inevitable. Memento Mori—
”Remember you must die”
— Is not a call to despair, but an invitation to reflect. This collection explores the fleeting nature of existence, the choices we make, and the marks we leave behind. Through stitched imagery, text, and symbolism, each piece tells a story of human experience—struggle, identity, loss, and resilience.
“Inhale to Belong”
“In 2024, approximately 18% of 11 to 17-year-olds in Great Britain had tried vaping, equating to around 980,000 young individuals.”
- ASH
This piece delves into the pressures of fitting in and the allure of vaping among youth. As trends rise, so does the temptation to conform, even at the expense of health. It’s a commentary on identity, peer influence, and the choices made to feel accepted.
“Silent Struggles”
“In 2023, men aged 45 to 64 in England and Wales experienced the highest suicide rates, with three-quarters of all suicides being male.”
- The Guardian
This piece reflects the often unseen battles men over 40 face with mental health. Societal pressures and stigmas can lead to silent suffering, highlighting the urgent need for open conversations and support.
“The March of Time”
“In England, life expectancy at birth for the period 2021 to 2023 is estimated at 79 years for males and 83 years for females.”
- Lords Library
This piece reflects the human life cycle, emphasizing that from the moment of birth, each day brings us closer to our inevitable end. It’s a contemplation on the passage of time and the universal journey from birth to death.
“Unconditional Bonds”
“In 2024, 51% of UK adults owned a pet, with 95% of owners considering their pets as part of the family.”
- PDSA
This piece reflects the profound relationships we share with our pets. Beyond companionship, these bonds offer emotional support, reduce stress, and enhance our overall well-being, highlighting the integral role pets play in our lives.
“Authentic Self”
“A 2020 study found that non-conformism positively influences self-efficacy and well-being, suggesting that embracing one’s true self enhances personal fulfillment.”
- Nature.com
This piece reflects the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self in a world that often pressures conformity. It’s a celebration of individuality, encouraging authenticity over societal expectations.
“Thank You?”
“In 2024, over 354,000 people in England were homeless, equating to 1 in every 160 individuals.”
- Shelter England
This piece is a reflection on the cost of living crisis and the struggle to survive when everything is stripped away. When homes are lost and options run out, what’s left? A handful of coins, a forced gratitude, and the fragility of dignity.
“Tuned Out”
“Individuals with ADHD often experience sound sensitivity, making it challenging to filter out background noise. Noise-canceling headphones can help dampen external sounds, reducing distractions and aiding focus.”
- Verywell Mind
This piece reflects the growing trend of individuals using headphones in public spaces. Whether to escape overwhelming environments or to immerse themselves in music and podcasts, it’s a modern coping mechanism that offers both solace and seclusion.
“Drowning in Plain Sight”
“In 2023, there were 8,274 alcohol-specific deaths in England, a 63.8% increase since 2006.”
- GOV.UK
This piece reflects the often hidden struggles of those battling alcohol addiction. Behind social gatherings and casual drinks lies a deeper turmoil, where dependence takes hold, leading to devastating health consequences and, all too often, premature death.
“Ceremonial Adornments”
“In 2020, England and Wales registered 607,922 deaths, with 81,795 (13.5%) involving COVID-19.”
- Office for National Statistics
This piece explores the timeless rituals of self-adornment for significant life events. From weddings to funerals, individuals don attire and accessories that honour tradition, express personal identity, and mark the profound moments of life’s journey.
"Earthly Return"
In the UK, forensic entomology utilises the presence of insects, such as blowflies and beetles, on decomposing bodies to estimate time since death, highlighting the natural process of human remains returning to the ecosystem.
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This piece reflects the natural cycle of life and death, illustrating how, in death, our bodies nourish the earth, becoming sustenance for insects and contributing to the continuation of life.
“Nature’s Fragility”
“In the UK, species abundance has declined by an average of 19% since 1970, with nearly one in six species now threatened with extinction.”
- State of Nature
This piece reflects the delicate relationship between humans and nature. As we impact our environment, the fragility of ecosystems becomes evident, reminding us of our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world.
“Immortal Idols”
“A 2024 study indicates that while most individuals maintain a healthy interest in celebrities, approximately 1% exhibit obsessional tendencies, leading to potential impacts on personal well-being. “
- bid.ub.edu
This piece explores society’s fascination with immortalizing public figures. From historical icons to contemporary celebrities, our tendency to idolise reflects a desire for connection and inspiration, yet it also highlights the fine line between admiration and obsession.
