STATE OF
DISAPPEARANCE
University of Bath - Permanent
Art on Campus
On 26 September 2024, the University of Bath officially launched the 'State of Disappearance’ exhibition at the lofty, modern Chancellors' Building at its Claverton Down campus. The collection was gifted to the University by Chantal Meza to enhance education on the problem of disappearance and to enhance the cultural life of the University. The exhibition serves as a focal point for teaching, public events and visitations by leading dignitaries.
The official opening of the exhibition on the evening of 26 September 2024 coincided with the 10th anniversary of the disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa, Mexico—an incident that shocked the world. According to Human Rights Watch, over 100,000 people disappeared in Mexico between 2006-2026, with thousands of unmarked graves discovered across the country.
Watch the introductory video explaining the State of Disappearance exhibition and how it inspired the University of Bath's Art on Campus iniative.
“We are proud to be working with Chantal Meza to highlight the important and pressing issue of people affected by disappearance related to conflict. Art can facilitate and inspire conversations about complex and challenging issues, and we hope this exhibition will provide our university community with thought-provoking material as part of our broad curriculum.
Phil Taylor
Vice Chancellor & President
Chantal Meza speaking at the launch of the State of Disappearance exhibition, accompanied by Vice Chancellor Phil Taylor, Student Union President Jimena Alamo and Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences Deborah Wilson.
Collaboration
The State of Disappearance exhibition has provided the opportunity for a number of collaborative events with university partners and renowned global organisations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and the British Red Cross. This included an event to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
Commenting on this, Emily Knox, Head of Restoring Family Links from the British Red Cross observed, "t’s fantastic that the University of Bath is highlighting this issue, which for many families is a silent tragedy".
Delegation from Northern Ireland visiting the exhibition, including Michael McConville, Shauna Moreland, Dympna Kerr, & Sandra Peake.
Chantal Meza giving a tour of the collection to the local Member of Parliament, Wera Hobhouse MP.
Visiting delegation from the International Committee of the Red Cross & British Red Cross.
Exhibition Catalogue
(Download Here)
Photo Gallery
