St Mary’s Hospital in London is well known for its Lindo Wing, where Kate Middleton delivered her three children. Today, the hospital completed Father’s story with the introduction of a new monumental statue, “Mother Vérité.” This historic work honors the literal and emotional journeys of mothers. It shines a light on the sometimes invisible obstacles that moms face each and every day.
Princess Kate—technically Kate Middleton at the time—welcoming Prince George, third in line to the throne, in 2013. She subsequently delivered Princess Charlotte here in 2015 and Prince Louis in 2018, all in this historic setting. Middleton has been candid about her experience with each of her pregnancies, describing them as “completely miserable.” She called the experience of giving birth “a little bit scary.” Her statue, meant to celebrate her life, is a sobering portrayal of the reality most women face, before and after giving birth.
Developed by artists Rayvenn Shaleigha D’Clark and Chelsea Hirschhorn, the statue was constructed from 3D scans of living postpartum women. It collaborates with the body to reveal elaborate details like stretch marks and nursing breasts that are more likely to be dismissed or sanitized. Our mission is to embrace and empower the wild spirit of motherhood. We hope to stimulate discussions on the challenges and what’s expected outside of motherhood.
“This is monumental! What an incredible tribute to the physical and emotional metamorphosis that is motherhood,” said Chelsea Hirschhorn, one of the artists behind the statue. The installation will make its first stop at Frieze art festival in Portman Square first. Afterward, it’ll journey to Miami for Art Basel before eventually returning to London for a permanent installation.
The famous Lindo Wing is where the public first encountered Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Fees are £7425 and rising. With each baby, the former Kate Middleton re-emerged onto the Lindo Wing steps. As the world’s media surrounded her, she was beaming, and yet walking in her own interval of vulnerability.
Yet according to the NHS, over one in ten women will develop postnatal depression within a year of giving birth. This incredible statistic is a reminder of the need to acknowledge and talk about the challenges that come with being a mother. The statue serves as a reminder to foster ongoing and open discussions about these problems, shedding light on the issues that so many continue to fight against.
It’s amazing! I’m 3 months postpartum and this gives me all the feels. Incredible statement,” expressed a mother who visited the installation. Though an unfortunate development, this sentiment reveals just how deep the statue’s poison has stung those who feel at home in its embrace.
