Enniskillen mural reinforces commitment to ending violence against women and girls

A new artwork commissioned by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to address violence against women and girls was formally marked at an event in Enniskillen today (Monday 20 April), following several weeks in place during which it has prompted reflection and conversation within the community.

The mural forms part of the Council’s commitment to the Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Framework and serves as a visible public statement of solidarity with women and girls, as well as a reminder of the need for sustained action, education and support to address violence and abuse.

The project was delivered by Enniskillen BID on behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, working with partners to bring this challenging visual statement to completion in a sensitive manner.

The event brought together representatives from the Council, local support organisations and community stakeholders, alongside invited guests.

Welcoming attendees, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr Barry McElduff, said:

“This is a powerful and visually striking artwork that has already encouraged important reflection and conversation.

While it is a stunning piece, its purpose goes far beyond appearance. It represents a clear commitment to ending violence against women and girls and highlights the need for continued action, education and support across our communities. We will build on this through the Murals with Meaning project, including a further mural planned for Omagh.”

Pat Blake from Enniskillen BID, Fionnuala French of The Executive Office, and Inspector Joni Beatty, Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), also addressed the event, highlighting the importance of visibility, listening to lived experience, and ensuring those affected by violence and abuse are aware of, and able to access, appropriate support services.

The artist behind the work, Hannah Constance, concluded the event by reflecting on its inspiration. She said it was informed by the strength and resilience of women in the context of violence against women.

“I was drawn to the symbolism of the phoenix,” she said. “Like the phoenix, women rise from the ashes.”

She added that this message is conveyed through vibrant colour, with fiery tones for the phoenix and purples and indigos surrounding the woman, with light emerging from behind her to emphasise renewal and strength.

While the artwork has been in place for several weeks, today’s event provided an opportunity to reaffirm its purpose and the shared responsibility to challenge attitudes and behaviours that contribute to harm.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council recognises that violence against women and girls remains a pressing issue. The installation sits within a wider programme of work focused on raising awareness, encouraging dialogue and supporting prevention and intervention efforts, in partnership with statutory agencies, community organisations and support services.

Further information on funding opportunities and local support services is available at:
https://www.fermanaghomagh.com/EVAWG