‘That anxiety is devastating’: Exhibition reflects on homelessness
Fifty exhibits at Murray Bridge Regional Gallery highlight the experience of locals who have been impacted by homelessness.
Monday has marked the first day of National Homelessness Week and the launch of an exhibition, Reflections on Homelessness, at Murray Bridge Regional Gallery.
More than 50 exhibits lined the walls of the gallery in reflection of people who have faced hardship and homelessness in the Murraylands district.
Thanuja Hiripitiyage, AC Care’s regional homelessness service manager, welcomed everyone and urged them to listen and read about the experiences in the room.
The gallery wall behind her held drawings from young school kids on what they thought represented homelessness.
Visitors had the opportunity not only to look, but to listen to the stories of people experiencing homelessness through headphones.
Shane Maddox, AC Care CEO, is devasted by the amount of people living in poverty. Photos: Liana Webster
Shane Maddocks, AC Care’s CEO, said he felt like a fraud talking about the topic as he had never experienced what it was like to be homeless.
“I’ve felt cold and hungry but I’ve always known there was food to eat, a bed to come home to and a safe place to stay,” he said.
“To have that anxiety in your life is devasting … that you’re not always going to be protected or cared for.”
Not many of the people present at the launch had to worry about that life, he said.
Powerful messages can be see in the artworks that are a part of the exhibition. Photos: Liana Webster.
Currently there are 7428 South Australians experiencing homelessness, according to the Hutt Street Centre.
The theme of national homelessness week this year is “homelessness action now”.
“It’s up to all of us to take some action … it’s not a celebration or joyful event … this is a time of reflection,” Mr Maddocks said.
Mr Maddox said AC Care was always looking for extra support and thanked his team for its hard work, especially with the rising cost of living.
“Together as a community we can come together and support people who are struggling,” he said.
The Reflections on Homelessness exhibition will be displayed until September 1.
- Get help: Visit AC Care at 29 Bridge Street, Murray Bridge, call them on 8531 4900 during business hours or call the Homelessness Gateway on 1800 003 308.
- More information: homelessnessaustralia.org.au/homelessness-week.
