from YAPRap March 2007
Loneliness – Loneliness is the exiled image of the lone rock - Anastacia Garven
Liverpool Women's Health Centre together with the Green Valley Domestic Violence Service received funding in 2005 from the NSW Office for Women to run a project with young women, using photography to explore various types of relationships.
It was a preventative project targeting young women 14-16 years, to raise awareness of healthy relationships and relationship dynamics, while practicing and refining their photography skills, producing inspiring photographic imagery.
During the April 2006 school holidays, seven young women from the Liverpool area participated in a photographic program in Liverpool, the Illawarra, Bundeena, Loftus, Cronulla and the Blue Mountains.
Frustration
- Why won't you listen to me? - Vichara Keat
The young women worked with a community artist and Centre counsellors during the photography workshops. At the project's closure, the young women chose 30 photographs for exhibition.
These images were used to benefit other young people in the south-western Sydney region as well as across NSW in promoting reflection and discussion about what young people want out of their relationships.
Light through the Tunnel - In this image it brings up hope – the darkness moving to the light - Anastacia Garven
The photographic exhibition travelled to local libraries in Bankstown, Lismore, Coffs Harbour, Wollongong, Katoomba, Bathurst and Fairfield.
The project has also generated a new resource – Relationship Photo-language Cards – 35 cards with the young women's photos printed on them used to generate thought and discussion in community groups around relationships.
Light, Stills, Emotion: Photolanguage cards
Photolanguage cards are a useful tool to stimulate discussion in group or individual settings with an education or therapeutic goal.
Young women designed the Light, Stills, Emotion: Photolanguage Cards with specific reflection and understanding of relationship issues.
The use of the cards for some people may result in getting in touch with deep emotions. The facilitator should be prepared for this possibility and skilled in using individual and group safety strategies. Familiarity with relationship issues and domestic violence dynamics is also required.
To buy a set of cards
Liverpool Women's Health Centre:
- 02 9601 3555
- lwhc@sswahs.nsw.gov.au
Woman in Sand Dunes
– To be alone no one is there for you but you keep on going and don't give up hope - Jennifer Ku
