Trindlemoss video recap on a thought-provoking HAC exhibition featuring the work of a talented group of contributors with learning disabilities and staff.
September’s ‘How We See Ourselves’ exhibition – at the Harbour Arts Centre in Irvine – used poetry, visual art and animation to highlight the lives, interests and talents of people with learning disabilities, and also raise awareness of the challenges they face.
The exhibition was a proud moment for all involved. It provided a profound multi-media invitation for everyone to pause and ask ‘how we see ourselves’ – not only as individuals but as a collective too, as well as reflecting on inclusion in its broadest sense.
From being a marginal conversation within communities to a central focus, the exhibition provided a profound multi-media invitation for the participants to pause and ask ‘how we see ourselves’ – not only as individuals but as a collective too, as well as reflecting on inclusion in its broadest sense.
Inspiring partnership working
Over the past four months, members of North Ayrshire Neighbourhood Networks along with customers and staff of Trindlemoss Day Opportunities in Irvine, have been working on the project.
The art and poetry were created alongside poet Simon Lamb, visual artist Lynn McNally and filmmaker Jim Gibb. They supported participants to create the diverse range of artworks on display at the exhibition, which launched at a well-attended event held on Tuesday 5 September, marking the culmination of a joyful but intense period of creativity.
In addition to the pieces displayed on the gallery walls, visitors had the chance to watch an inspiring short film (now featured above) with animations based on the words and artwork created by the participants, as well as interviews with the artists and staff involved in the project.
Special thanks to everyone involved
The project was made possible thanks to funding from the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, with the team behind it being particularly grateful for the support of Arran CVS over the course of its development.
One Neighbourhood Networks member who was involved in the project said: “It gave me something to get out the house for, otherwise I would be at home by myself on the computer.
“I met new people and enjoyed taking part in the group sessions with everyone. The launch event was amazing – I’m buzzing! I’m so happy at how the poems and video turned out, and I cant wait to bring my family over to see it.”
Poet Simon Lamb, who has been working with the artists throughout the project, as well as providing the voiceovers for the poetry in the exhibition film, said:
“I am so happy to have played a role in this incredible project. I’ve learned so much and met some awesome, inspiring folk. I’m heart-happy.
“It has been a privilege to voice their voices and I hope I have done them justice. Through creation, we really can express ‘how we see ourselves’.”
