About

The experience of having a child die creates feelings that are on opposite ends of a spectrum. There is a sense of light, happiness and love that typically accompanies the news of a pregnancy. Upon pregnancy or infancy loss, that light is dimmed by feelings of sadness, seclusion, and stigma. Bereaved individuals learn how to live in each space and while darkness may try to take over, the light always finds a way to shine. This exhibit attempts to call attention to this lifelong balancing act-the union between joy and grief—light and dark.

In late July of 2022, 26 individuals who have experienced child loss gathered at the beautiful Duncan Manor in Towanda, Illinois. During their time together, the participants engaged in an open group discussion facilitated by Sarah Shields. Photographer, Devon Tracy captured images during the session as well as individual portraits after.

Light + Dark: The Grief of Child Loss was inspired by the Baby Loss Journeys exhibit created by Jen DeBouver and displayed at the Trickster Cultural Center in Schaumburg, Illinois in the fall of 2021.