08/05/2008
Focus on homelessness
An exhibition of photographs showing life through the lens of the city's homeless community is being launched at a Liverpool library.
The 'What We See' exhibition at Kensington Library from next Monday (12th May) is the result of a photography course commissioned by the city council in conjunction with the Whitechapel Centre, a dedicated service for the city's homeless and those at risk of being without a home.
The course gave 23 people who use the centre and the Women's Direct Access Centre the opportunity to learn new skills and gain confidence.
The photographs show life from the perspective of homeless people and it is hoped that it will trigger a debate about the issue among those who view it.
Liverpool's Executive Director of Community Services, Tony Hunter, said: "I am really pleased that the work of the people who benefit from our homelessness service is being exhibited to a wider audience.
"I would urge people to go along and have a look at the thought provoking photographs, which give a remarkable insight into the lives of people who for a whole range of reasons find themselves homeless."
Of those who took part in the scheme, several have gone on to become volunteer photographers at the Whitechapel Centre.
Another six have furthered their learning by taking a catering course at Liverpool Community College.
Maureen McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Whitechapel Centre, said: "Many of the people using our services have had poor experiences of formal learning, lack confidence and are excluded from opportunities most people take for granted.
"This project has proven to be a fantastic opportunity to showcase their talents."
The course tutor, freelance photographer Christian Petersen, said: "The students made great photographers as they see the world in a very honest and direct way and this makes for interesting and unique photographs.
"It's great that the Whitechapel Centre will be utilising the students photography skills and enthusiasm to document their own work at the centre.
"I look forward to seeing what they produce in the future - they have proven that they are more than capable of expressing themselves with a camera."
The exhibition runs until Friday 23rd May, and admission is free.
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