For-purpose aged and disability organisation VMCH will next week launch its debut photography exhibition.
Called ‘Through Our Eyes’, the exhibition will celebrate the talents of people with disability and give audiences a unique insight into their lives.
The free exhibition will feature portraits of eight VMCH clients captured by photographer Fi Douglass, viewed alongside film photographs taken by the clients themselves.
The joy of photography
For budding professional photographer Ashlee Milne, the exhibition is the perfect opportunity to hone her skills and break down barriers.
“I did my Cert 3 in photography and visual arts last year and I am currently studying to get a Cert 4. I would like to do something creative in the future,” Milne said.
She is employed by VMCH’s Cre8 program in Ararat and is also passionate about advocating for positive change for people with disability in the workforce.
“I like that VMCH don’t do wage assessments on their disabled employees, and you can get a proper wage. More employers need to put in the work to accommodate and educate themselves on disability,” she added.
Wayne Dunderdale, another of the clients featured in the exhibition, is also a keen photographer.
“I took photos of the city when the Anzac Day parade was on. Anzac is special to me because of my grandad that was in the war. I like to support him,” he said of his photos.
Dunderdale is part of VMCH’s Green Team, a gardening and maintenance social enterprise. His friend, fellow Green Team member Daniel Johnston, is also taking part in the exhibition.
“I took some photos of plants and flowers because I enjoy looking at things in the garden,” Johnston said, adding that he enjoyed using the film camera for the first time. ‘
Feeling seen
VMCH CEO Sonya Smart said that while one in five Australians have a disability, many feel unseen and undervalued.
“This exhibition shifts the focus, placing individuals at the centre of their own narrative and offering an unfiltered glimpse into their everyday experiences. We are privileged to facilitate this exhibition, and hope it is a transformative experience for participants and visitors alike,” she explained.
Through Our Eyes will run at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Gallery in Fitzroy from Monday June 23 to Friday 4 July, 10am-3pm each day.
It is closed weekends and Thursday 26 June.
The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking located nearby.