Ethics, Empathy, and the Human Condition by Margaret Mitchell

Margaret Mitchell will talk about her 30-year arts practice as a documentary photographer, the projects she has undertaken and the people who entrusted her with their stories. Through attentive listening, observation, and research, she makes work that bridges social realities and psychological landscapes that shape people’s lives.

Her projects have spanned exploring inequality and stigma to meditations on the human condition, always with a deep responsibility and ethical commitment to those she meets and spends time with.

She will discuss recent works including An Ordinary Eden, documenting the experiences of people with lived experience of homelessness, and As the Day Closes, which explores end of life through quiet, personal, and in-depth encounters with those living with terminal illness. From one man’s account of a life shaped by redemption to another’s quiet gift of a tree-of-life necklace before his death, these moments speak to trust, connection, and ethical responsibility. Margaret Mitchell’s work connects us with stories and experiences of the human condition - of belonging, of home, of personal strengths and of the life’s fragility. The talk invites audiences to consider how through the connections she builds with people, Margaret’s work fosters empathy, challenges stereotypes, and creates legacies honouring the complexity, dignity and humanity of those she meets.

Bookings and information

Places are limited to 40 in-person and 100 online participants.  Registration for in-person tickets will close on Friday 23 October 2026 at midnight. Online registration will close on Thursday 29 October 2026 at midnight.  In-person tickets include tea/coffee. 

If you have any questions you can contact us via email: arts@stcolumbashospice.org.uk

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