Grow: A Journey Into Motherhood

An Exhibition by Holly Stone Photography

I became a mother for the first time in 2021. Nothing could have prepared me for the rollercoaster I was about to ride. After a traumatic labour, I remember coming home with my little boy thinking, “what do I do now?” The sleepless nights, tears, physical pain and emotional scarring from my experience were present everyday and the fog wasn’t lifting.

I was three months postpartum when my health visitor told me about a post natal course run in Brighton for new mothers and their little ones called Mother Nurture. I was scared to attend, but after the first session I knew I had found my tribe. It became the highlight of my week. I felt supported, listened to and valued. I was able to laugh and cry without fear of judgement in a safe space, and the bravery of my fellow women blew me away.

After getting to know my group, I approached the ladies with an idea for a project focusing on portraits of new mothers and was met with open arms. The majority of the images are of women with whom I shared my journey and were taken after the Mother Nurture sessions, whilst our babies were entertained by other mothers - a challenging but joyful experience!

The remaining portraits in the exhibit feature amazing mums I met through advertising this project. They shared their experiences of struggles and celebration, hoping to inspire others to speak about the whirlwind that is motherhood. I am so grateful to them and to all the women in this project that let me take their photograph.

By the end of my ten week course my depression had lifted, I was on my way to recovery. I owe so much to Mother Nurture for helping me grow into the confident mother I am now, for showing me that my feelings were valid and for encouraging me that I was and am good enough.

I feel honoured to now be working alongside this incredible charity.

I hope you enjoy the exhibition.

Holly

View the full exhibition here