Daily lives explored at new Nairn photo exhibition
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A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition capturing the daily lives of people with learning disabilities has gone on display at Nairn Community and Arts Centre.
Our Lives explores and celebrates the ordinary every-day pursuits that would have been impossible a couple of decades ago, when many people with learning disabilities lived in residential hospital settings and had little contact with the wider community.
The photographs, illustrating people at work, home, leisure and within their relationships, were taken by Nairn resident John Gallon, who also has learning disabilities – giving him the chance to master his first solo photographic exhibition.
Mr Gallon, who is a member of Nairn Camera Club, said it was a heart-warming experience.
“I feel so proud,” he said. “It means such a lot to me and it shows what people with a learning disability can achieve.
“Taking the photographs was challenging but it was a great experience and I’ve found seeing them displayed very moving.”
Mr Gallon was supported by Nairn documentary photographer Carrie Bates, who assisted him to develop his camera and photo-editing skills.
The exhibition was commissioned by People First Highland, to mark Learning Disabilities Week.
Christine Fletcher, People First Highland development worker, said it was a reflected society’s progression wonderfully.
“As these images show, thankfully things are changing – although there is still a way to go for people with a learning disability to be fully integrated and valued by society.”
The photographs are on display until Thursday.
