Life through the eyes of children in care

Monday, 5 September 2016

• As Eye See It photographic exhibition showcases images captured by young people living in care
• Exhibition open at the WA Maritime Museum from September 5-18, 2016 

Children and young people living in care from across Western Australia will give others a glimpse into their world today in the 2016 As Eye See It photographic exhibition.

Child Protection Minister Andrea Mitchell said the exhibition provided a forum for young people to describe their care experience through a collection of black and white photographs of the people, places and objects important them.

"Held during National Child Protection Week each year, the exhibition also raises awareness about what it means to live in care," Ms Mitchell said.

"For some of these young people it requires a lot of courage to take part in this exhibition and share with us their own personal care experience through their images.

"By participating in this program these young people have also been able to learn new skills, participate in a workshop and make connections and share experiences with others in care."

Aged from 12 to 15, participants in the exhibition begin their involvement by learning basic camera skills from photography mentors Rick Mason, from Murdoch University, and freelancer Greg Lewis.

Each participant is then given a digital camera and asked to capture five images each, including one photograph of their right eye.

"The exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity to see the thoughts and emotions of children in care come to life, and I thank all the participants for opening up their world to us," the Minister said.

The free exhibition runs until September 18, 2016 at the Western Australian Maritime Museum, Fremantle, and is supported by Murdoch University and the WA Maritime Museum.

Fact File

• The Liberal National Government through the Department for Child Protection and Family Support co-ordinates the project, which is now in its fourth year
• This is the department's flagship event for National Child Protection Week 2016, encouraging all communities to play a role in protecting vulnerable children and young people
• For more information about the photographic exhibition, visit http://www.dcp.wa.gov.au