Photos from the opening night - No Forwarding Address: Homelessness Through our eyes.

Sincere thanks to Henrietta Zeffert for photography.

HEART AND HOPE: A REFLECTION ON ON THE OPENING NIGHT 

By Rebecca Allen, Artist.

Sunday 12^th August saw the close of the "No Forwarding Address: Homelessness Through Our Eyes" photographic exhibition at Federation Square. Hopefully what was created here will continue for years to come, changing perceptions about those experiencing homelessness, and giving hope to the homeless.

Without exception, everyone I spoke to was impressed with the setup of the exhibition and the standard of the work. Considering the topic, the vibrancy and variety of the photos was amazing. Images ranged from great shots to expert photo manipulations, yet all told their stories and touched hearts. Each artist's work was enhanced by the framing, title plates and artist statements. There truly were some amazing things written there for all to see, stark and emotion packed. My friends from all over Melbourne and Sydney were blown away at the opening night.

Upon entering BMW Edge people were in just about every seat, and standing around the gallery. The Choir Of Hard Knocks, artists, and their mentors filled the front of the auditorium in a swirl of dress and colour. As was the goal of this exhibition nobody would have picked any of us as a stereotypical homeless person. Each person did the project proud, and people from all walks of life mixed in an almost carnival atmosphere, sharing the moment.

The Choir Of Hard Knocks gave a tremendous performance, including a moving rendition of Hallelujah. They received much applause and many accolades, as did the artists and mentors. The Reverend Tim Costello, David Krasnostein and Kristin Hilton from PILCH, and Mark Burke, Ghada Audicho and Danielle Johnston of the future focus group, gave some stirring speeches that really  spoke about homelessness, what we experience, and what needs to be done. However, the most moving speeches of all were given by Tanya Ungeri and James McParland. These are two of the talented and amazing artists who told their story, each extraordinary in their own way. Their tales were of tragedy and triumph, as were all of the others. It was both humbling and a privilege to work with and among such brave and talented people. Despite all adversity hope prevails, and light lives.

For many this was the first time to tell their stories and showcase their talents. Hopefully this will be a life-changing experience that will remain with them as they touch others with their spirit and tenacity. It is a much needed project for a worthy cause, and should be run again. Over time as more stories are told, understanding and acceptance may prevail, ending the stigma and stereotyping of what is a growing problem in today's socio/economic climate. Remember, we are all one pay away from homelessness.

I would like to leave you with this quote: "I did not know how empty was my soul until it was filled." - King Arthur, Excalibur

Remember your respect, your kind word or your smile, could fill someone's soul, if only for a moment.

Rebecca Allen