‘Hidden Vision’ Exhibition - 2003
The original inspiration for Resonant came from D'via (Deaf View Image Art)- an American Deaf Artist Group founded by Betty G Miller who inspired Omeima. Omeima wanted to create a similar group in the UK and her idea had been discussed two years before Resonant was eventually set up.
The one clear issue for the Deaf arts scene was that there was limited opportunity for deaf women artists to develop their artistic practice, and promote and exhibit their work in the UK.
In November 2002, the Lake of Art exhibition, at Candid Arts Gallery in London, brought together new works from several deaf women artists. Following the success of this exhibition, Omeima Mudawi identified that there was a growing audience for Deaf Arts exhibitions and a real demand for further collaborations with Deaf artists. As a result in January 2003, a co-operative, called Resonant was formed, bringing together Deaf women artists working in diverse mediums.
Resonant began with 7 members: Cathy Woolley, Deborah Neve, Dionne Charles, Fiona McClean, Omeima Mudawi, Melissa Mostyn and Zoe Fudge.
Resonant's first exhibition was held in May 2003 at Chats Palace in London. This was a resounding success and therefore more artists showed enthusiasm and interest to join.