REVIEW: Headstart ABI Service’s Photography Exhibition
Submitted by culturehunter-info on 23 August 2011 - 5:57pm
Back in 2006, photographer Eddie Cross completed Eddie Cross’ 14 Hour Day for Disability for Leap Frog Ability, a gruelling triathlon that raised $70,000. Of that money, $15,000 was donated to the Hunter Brain Injury Service. Because of his experiences, in 2009 Sue Mchattie- Head Co-ordinator of Headstart Acquired Brain Injury Service- asked him to share his knowledge with Headstart’s users. Eddie agreed, and so the Happy Snappers were born. Though just tiny to start with, in the two years since it has begun the group now boasts upwards of five members most weeks. Under Eddie’s tutelage, the group has learnt how to use the image editting programme ‘Picassa’ and gained confidence to take photos when out and about.A common problem was the struggle with memory that all who have acquired brain injury face.
Who: Consumers of the Headstart Acquired Brain Injury Service
What: Photography Exhibition
Where: Compass Housing, Beaumont Street
When: Opening night: 5th August, 6:30pm
Shown daily: 8- 30 August, 11:30- 14:30
Cost: Free
Organised by Headstart, this exhibition showcases a selection of photos taken by some of the consumers who use its services.
Back in 2006, photographer Eddie Cross completed Eddie Cross’ 14 Hour Day for Disability for Leap Frog Ability, a gruelling triathlon that raised $70,000. Of that money, $15,000 was donated to the Hunter Brain Injury Service. Because of his experiences, in 2009 Sue Mchattie- Head Co-ordinator of Headstart Acquired Brain Injury Service- asked him to share his knowledge with Headstart’s users. Eddie agreed, and so the Happy Snappers were born. Though just tiny to start with, in the two years since it has begun the group now boasts upwards of five members most weeks. Under Eddie’s tutelage, the group has learnt how to use the image editting programme ‘Picassa’ and gained confidence to take photos when out and about.A common problem was the struggle with memory that all who have acquired brain injury face.
“Remembering how to do it every time was hard,” Eddie tells me, “and meant that we had to go over things lots of times.” His approach to dealing with this problem had him getting alongside the person facing the problem and helping them overcome it. “I try and help them work it out for themselves,” Eddie explains, “and challenge (the thinking behind) the things they say.”
When I visit the viewing space, I am impressed by the talent. Given the differing angles on what in life is truly worth watching and taking in, the selection of photos aptly compliments the appreciation of each person.
Both of the photos taken by Scott Priestley are excellently captured. Back when the group started, he photographed his case-manager Judy out on the back porch. Using Picassa, the image was later editted and had a lovely bright glow added to it- so much so that she now looks positively angelic! The other, of his daughters holding candles, hints at the warm, family closeness that abounds at Christmas time.
Although quick to brush aside her talent, do not be deceived by the modest nature of Mary O’Brien. Taken up close, the photo she has taken of her kitten Soxy speaks plainly about her ease with the camera, as does the picture of her garden, with the magical and deceptive nature of its colours.
Equally so are the photos taken by Gary Luke. Both, one of a dishevelled looking chap and the other of a fellow bending the strings on a guitar, speak volumes of the appreciation he feels for photography. Allyn Green’s skill is also evident in his photos, one of which has trees framed in such a way that the viewer could easily imagine they were in a different time or place.
This is but a brief snapshot of those photos that stood out to this reviewer. For those who have had their interest piqued, I encourage you; go have a look when you can! To all of Headstart’s photographers- well done!
Review by Tim Grant, August 2011.
