The exhibition “A Manifesto of Visibility and Voice” has officially opened at the BEFA Forum 2026 in Düsseldorf.

Featuring 44 works by women from 14 countries - including Austria, Brazil, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States - the exhibition presents a powerful and diverse global perspective on women’s experiences within the funeral sector.

During the opening ceremony Alison Crake, Project Lead and Curator said: “Through your art, you have shared not only your work - but your lived experience. You have shown us dedication and devotion. You have revealed challenge and exclusion. And above all, you have given voice to stories that must be seen, heard, and understood. To every single one of you - We see you. We hear you. And we stand with you. Right by your side. But let this not end here.
Let us take what we have witnessed, what we have felt, and what we have learned - and carry it forward into our organisations, our conversations, and our leadership.
Let us commit not only to recognising these voices, but to amplifying them. Not only to acknowledging these experiences, but to addressing them. Let us learn from each other, and more than anything let us support each other. And in doing that - let our individual voices come together…and become a chorus.“

>> Explore the full collection in the accompanying interactive catalogue
 

The exhibition is on view June 4–6, 2026 at the BEFA Forum, FIAT-IFTA stand H16 & H18, Hall 13.

A culmination of a worldwide call to action, the project invites women working across the funeral profession to document their lived experiences through creative expression. It brings together authentic stories and artistic voices that illuminate the realities of women’s work in funeral care - its meaning, its complexity, and too often, its invisibility.

Through photography, painting, collage, and short video, contributors reflect on their journeys, challenges, insights, and achievements. The works demonstrate how creativity can foster reflection, recognition, and dialogue in spaces where it is most needed, offering visibility with honesty, perspective, and courage. 

This exhibition stands as a strong statement and a catalyst for industry-wide dialogue. Visitors to the BEFA Forum are invited to experience this unique collection firsthand - a rare opportunity to witness the intersection of professional practice and personal artistic expression on a global scale.

Our sincere thanks go to BEFA Forum and Bundesverband Deutscher Bestatter (BDB) for their support and generosity in providing the space for this exhibition to exist. Your commitment has made this moment possible.