IHC exhibition tells of hopes, dreams

David Sullivan, of Mosgiel, and exhibiting photographer Bridgit Anderson, of Christchurch, at the opening of the IHC exhibition on Thursday. Photo: Linda Robertson
David Sullivan, of Mosgiel, and exhibiting photographer Bridgit Anderson, of Christchurch, at the opening of the IHC exhibition on Thursday. Photo: Linda Robertson

An exhibition showcasing the stories of people with intellectual disabilities is a chance for the public to engage with an often misunderstood group, the exhibition photographer says.

The IHC-funded multimedia project, "Take a moment with us'', opened to the public at the HD Skinner Annex, at Otago Museum yesterday.

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition on Thursday evening, photographer Bridgit Anderson said the show documented the ordinariness of people with intellectual disabilities.

"It answers questions that people may be too embarrassed to ask by showing the everyday lives of people with an intellectual disability - that we all have got similar hopes and dreams.''

The exhibition was launched in Christchurch in 2010.

However, the works and many of those featured in them were significantly affected by the 2011 earthquake, Ms Anderson said.

Because of the quake, the Christchurch exhibition finished early, but was viewed by 174,000 people over three months.

The Dunedin show was the 10th time the exhibition had been shown in New Zealand.

"Every time I open the crate it is like having a conversation with old friends.''

She said many of the people in the exhibition had experienced changes in circumstances since the photos were taken and accompanying stories had been updated to reflect this.

"Situations have changed ... not all of it is a happy story but that is normal life.''

Speaking at the opening, Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull said Dunedin was an inclusive, tolerant city.

"Dunedin has a proud reputation and legacy for campaigning for the rights of everyone ... but there is plenty of room for improvement.''

Mr Cull encouraged the community to visit the exhibition and "walk in other people's shoes''.

Dunedin IHC user David Sullivan, who has Asperger syndrome, said he hoped the public would be interested in the stories.

"It is quite a good chance to show the public what people with intellectual disabilities can do despite having limitations.''

The free exhibition will finish on May 30.

Workshops focusing on creating opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities will be held in conjunction with the exhibition.

margot.taylor@odt.co.nz

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