Breast pumps and exhausted mirror selfies — painting modern motherhood

An exhibition by Scottish artist Caroline Walker captures the intimate realities of motherhood, portraying night feeds, nappy changes, and nursery playtime. Her work explores the often unseen and emotional aspects of being a mother in today’s world.

Depicting Honest Moments

Walker’s paintings reveal raw and unfiltered moments of parenting, steering clear of idealized or romanticized images. Through her art, she reflects the fatigue, love, and resilience that define motherhood.

"Motherhood isn’t just joy and smiles; it is exhaustion and relentless care," Walker says, emphasizing the importance of showing both sides.

Themes and Techniques

The artist uses a candid, sometimes stark style, often featuring self-portraits that include exhausted mirror selfies. These images are paired with scenes of breast pumps and the daily tasks mothers juggle, weaving a narrative of modern parenting’s complexity.

Artistic Impact

By focusing on the physical and emotional labor of motherhood, Walker’s exhibition challenges traditional representations in art, opening a wider conversation about women’s experiences.

Caroline Walker’s work offers a powerful and unvarnished perspective on motherhood, highlighting the resilience and reality behind its often invisible daily struggles.

The Times — 2025-11-25