Love, Life, Loss & everything in between. An exhibition of Photovoice in Huddersfield.

It is one thing for people to take part in a Photovoice project where they create images which have meaning to them personally. But when those photographs are exhibited alongside the work of other people and viewed by a wider audience then a wonderful transformation takes place.

Friday 14th January saw the opening of an exhibition of three Photovoice projects that have been delivered in Huddersfield in 2021.

Two of the projects were hosted by Employability Solutions, a registered Independent School offering an alternative secondary education for young people who thrive in a smaller, more nurturing setting than mainstream schools.

The third Photovoice project represented was hosted by the Hopeful Families programme which is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and European Social Fund grant. Helping people seek opportunities into Employment, Education and Training across Kirklees.

Everyone sees something different when they view a photograph, there is no right way or wrong way to view an image - in fact what is most exciting about an exhibition is that it creates an opportunity for the images to take on new meanings with each viewing, so much of what we see in a photograph is guided by the thoughts, feelings, emotions and experiences of the viewer.

As I write these words it is actually the morning after the exhibtion and I am absolutely shattered/elated as I reflect on what was an amazing experience not only delivering these projects but also getting everything ready for the event.

For me the exhibition is one of the most exciting aspects of Photovoice - once a body of work is on display it takes on a life of it’s own, the images interact and relate to one another, viewers bring their own meanings and interpretations into the mix, conversations and connections occur.

Over the course of the opening event over 40 people attended and bringing a diverse range of experiences to reflect on the themes and subject matter on display. Life, Love, Loss - the human experience writ large.

I am often struck at how PhotoVoice allows us to talk about things that are often difficult to find words for - not only for those who create the photographs but also for those who view them.

As well as the conversations which arose during the delivery of the PhotoVoice projects - the exhibition presents an opportunity to widen the conversation - alongside more traditional means (talking to people) we also embraced new technologies and used QR codes which gave access to some reflective questions that invited people to share their thoughts and reactions to the work presented.

Some of the comments and responses received were:

How did the photos in the exhibition make you feel?
”Positive about the process and yet troubled by some of the tragic stories too.”

“Reflective, interested and I was moved by the emotions conveyed in the photos and words and the sense of both loss and hope.”

“Some of them made me feel a bit sad, I felt for the photographers who had clearly been going through some difficult times. Other photos made me smile, and I recognised the feelings of hope in the images with sunshine.”

What did you enjoy most today?
”The buzz of youthful creativity and celebration. Meeting old friends and making new ones.”

“Seeing people with the opportunity to explore and express the things that matter to them and communicate it to others.”

“The whole thing was refreshing, seeing the art, people and being in the space.”

What do you think you might do or change as a result of the exhibition? 

“I will tell other people about it and this might change their perception about young people and their opinions.”

“It reminds me how important creativity can be for well being and sorting our how you feel, who you are and who you want to be.”

“Stop and observe my surroundings more, though I already do this as part of my daily appreciation and mindfulness.”

We have some video interviews with project participants talking about their experience of Photo voice coming soon as well as a video of the exhibition event and feedback from those who visited - these will be available via the blog and shared on social media too so keep a look out for them.

The exhibition is on display until 6th February and we are keen to grow the conversation further, gathering the thoughts and feedback of everyone involved to raise awareness of themes around health and wellbeing.

If you’d like to arrange a viewing then please do get in touch hello@ourcreativeconnection.org