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For-purpose aged and disability organisation VMCH is proud to launch its debut photography exhibition, celebrating the talents of people with disability and giving a unique insight into their lives.
‘Through Our Eyes’ will include stunning portraits of eight VMCH clients captured by photographer Fi Douglass, paired alongside film photographs taken by the clients themselves. The free exhibition will run at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Gallery in Fitzroy from Monday June 23 to Friday 4 July.
For budding professional photographer Ashlee Milne, aged 27, the exhibition is the perfect opportunity to hone her skills and break down barriers.
“I did my Cert 3 in photography and visual arts last year and I am currently studying to get a Cert 4. I would like to do something creative in the future.”
Ashlee, who is employed by VMCH’s Cre8 program in Ararat, is also passionate about advocating for positive change for people with disability in the workforce.
“I like that VMCH don’t do wage assessments on their disabled employees, and you can get a proper wage. More employers need to put in the work to accommodate and educate themselves on disability.”
Wayne Dunderdale, aged 51, is also a keen photographer.
“I took photos of the city when the Anzac Day parade was on,” Wayne says. “Anzac is special to me because of my grandad that was in the war. I like to support him.”
Wayne is part of VMCH’s Green Team, a gardening and maintenance social enterprise. His friend, fellow Green Team member Daniel Johnston, is also taking part in the exhibition.
“I took some photos of plants and flowers because I enjoy looking at things in the garden,” Daniel, aged 30, said. “I also enjoyed using a film camera for the first time.”
VMCH CEO Sonya Smart said that while one in five Australians have a disability, many feel unseen and undervalued.
“This exhibition shifts the focus, placing individuals at the centre of their own narrative and offering an unfiltered glimpse into their everyday experiences. We are privileged to facilitate this exhibition, and hope it is a transformative experience for participants and visitors alike.”
Ms Smart also thanked fellow Catholic organisation ACU for hosting the exhibition.
“We are grateful to ACU for offering their amazing gallery space to showcase this important work.”
Visual Arts Professor Catherine Bell, director of the ACU Melbourne Gallery, said the gallery is proud to support VMCH.
“The exhibition fulfills our commitment to promoting emerging artists, connecting with the community, and amplifying underrepresented and marginalised voices,” Professor Bell said.
“I am hopeful the exhibition will invite viewers to move beyond stereotypical narratives of disability and instead experience the nuanced, bold, and complex realities of life with disability.” The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking located nearby.
Event details: 23 June – 4 July 2025, 10am – 3pm (closed weekends and on June 26). ACU Gallery, 26 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy.
