Seeing the joy in the little things

LAST Saturday saw the launch of Ballarat International Foto Biennale exhibition The Little Things at Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council’s Welcome Centre hall.

The showcase of photographs has been created by young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, and explores all the things in their lives that boost their wellbeing.

Alongside the initiative was a free youth program which brought Wimmera and Ballarat young people together for workshops, activities and social opportunities.

The exhibition idea emerged from local PhD student and youth worker Meg Lee, and the community is invited to contribute their own reflections using an instant photo printer.

“It was the middle of that really wet winter and the aftermath of that murky COVID lockdown when 20 brave, generous human beings decided to embark on a project with me,” she said.

“We met in groups to share photographs about wellbeing, to talk about life and to share the things that help us feel good, supported and optimistic.”

The exhibition focuses on the importance of listening to and understanding the experiences of local youth.

“I believe that young people are the experts in their own experiences of wellbeing and it’s important for the community to really listen to the perspectives of all young people,” said Ms Lee.

“I mean making a genuine effort to understand and appreciate young people’s perspectives.”

Member for Ballarat, Catherine King, was also in attendance and encouraged young people to continue sharing their experiences.

“To all of the young people involved in the exhibition, congratulations, you are part of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale which is a huge exhibition,” she said.

“The great thing about art, culture and experience is it shows such an important part of your life and time and place.”

Community members can view and contribute to it until Sunday 1 October.