Artist Deirdre Kashdan is bringing “The Missing Project” to the library in Broad Street from 1 to 15 September 2025, to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September.
Deirdre, who lives in Deal, was inspired to create the project by a trend that was common in the Victorian times known as “Hidden Mother” photography. It involves young children being photographed with someone - usually their mother - present but hidden in the photograph.
An example of the work that will be on display. Each piece was inspired by Victorian "Hidden Mother Photography".
Mothers would be draped and hidden within the frame, often behind curtains, under cloaks, or disguised as chairs. It arose from the need to keep children still due to long exposure times.
These early images resonated with Deirdre who felt her own presence was largely hidden whilst supporting her son with an enduring mental illness for more than 27 years.
Deirdre describes the work as “a type of social sculpture, which is enabling this hidden community to connect with each other and feel seen”.
She added: “I hope it is also helping to remove some of the misunderstanding and stigma that surrounds serious mental illness. Whilst these images are very poignant, they also depict strength, endurance, and love."
The project features the work of more than 200 women across the UK who have all been similarly affected. Mothers, sisters, daughters and wives have been creating their own portraits inspired by Hidden Mother photography, and a selection of these images will be displayed at the library.
The display will take the form of images on pull up banners situated around the library with participants’ illustrated works placed on top of the bookshelves.
“I hope people will take the time to visit this exhibition which has such an important message around mental health.”
Paul Webb, KCC Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “Art has a powerful way of opening up conversations so I hope people will take the time to visit this exhibition which has such an important message around mental health.”
“This project perfectly captures how mental health struggles are often hidden, or a carer's sense of self can get lost supporting someone else's needs.”
Diane Morton, KCC Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, said: "This project perfectly captures how mental health struggles are often hidden, or a carer's sense of self can get lost supporting someone else's needs.
"It's also ideally timed, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day and happening in the same month as Kent and Medway hosts the Baton of Hope Tour.
"All these events are dedicated to shifting the culture of silence around mental health challenges to one of openness, understanding and help - and I thank them for shining this much-needed light."
Notes to editors
- Find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day: www.iasp.info
- Find out more about the Baton of Hope Here comes the Baton of Hope - full route and events plan announced! - News & Features - Kent County Council
Mental health problems can affect any of us at any time in our lives. When life gets tough, talking can help. Call the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123, or chat in confidence to a trained Release the Pressure adviser, anytime, just text the word SHOUT to 85258 or call 0800 107 0160.
Learn how to better help people with mental health issues, confidently have conversations or signpost to support, with free training with Mid Kent Mind. Men are less likely to seek help with their mental health and Movember Conversations also includes practical tools to help you speak with the men in your life who might be struggling.
Find more information about mental health support in Kent and Medway by visiting the Kent and Medway Mental Wellbeing Hub.
For more information on the Missing Project visit: https://www.themissingproject.co.uk/
