‘HAIL THEE – WE COME IN REVERIES OF CHANGE’ is a sensory incantation by designer Alison Conneely in support of UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, using fashion as a medium for social and environmental change.

In Alison Conneely’s tapestry, set in the ancient bog of Derrigimlagh in Connemara, a female figure rises from the lily bed pond, calling us to action. In a series of symbolic silk scarves, a group of international artists respond to this call for action. Each scarf holds evocation deep in its pigment, in a series which aims to raise visibility and funds for UNFPA.

This collaboration encourages us all to take actions, both small and big, to offer solidarity and raise awareness of some of the most pressing issues facing humanity. It asks us to create new ways of interacting with each other and our planet that transcends borders and species.

Conceived in 2019, in the uplifting aftermath of the Repeal Referendum in Ireland, this project slowly gestated through a global health pandemic and worsening climate crisis. It was birthed in the devastating wake of the overturning of Roe v Wade and the toppling of reproductive rights in the US. No matter the month, or decade, or century, the female body continues to be a battleground but so too does the fight for sexual and reproductive health rights continue.

This ensemble of scarves is an ‘incitement to reverie’. Looking back through history, through story and myth, women’s marginality is overturned and here they inhabit powerful roles. Each scarf is a poetic intervention, each one a call to action and solidarity.

Moments of sensual, textured reverie allow us the freedom to dream, where imagination summons a different telling and an alternative future of female empowerment.

Ancient myths and contemporary concerns wrought in this beguiling silk, are stories and declarations to wear upon our shoulders. We return to the cosmic constellations to turn things around. Goddesses, mythical figures, totems and persecuted women from the past join forces with the leaders of the present to lead an epochal rising against oppression.

Through contemporary homage we collectively salute those women who are on front lines; maternal and abortion rights campaigners, first nations’ cultures, land protectors and climate activists. Safe crossings and unconditional welcomes for all migrants are demanded.

These scarves are interventions, stories reclaimed and retold, wearable actions, wearable solidarity, and declarations of bodily autonomy.

— Sara O’Rourke

Colours and symbols in delicate silk invoke ancient myths, poetic imaginings, native American wisdom and the migrant’s crossing in a series of silk scarves created with international artists - Alannah Davey, Dolorosa de la Cruz, Rachel Fallon, Rosa Farahini, Jahnavi Inniss, Alice Maher, Paula McGloin, Jesse Jones, Hina Khan & Isabel Nolan.

Collaborators: Writer & researcher Sara O’Rourke & Designer Keith Nally.