See Change held a regional launch of ‘Look Beyond’, a photovoice research exhibition, on 17th January 2018 at 6pm in Shine Discovery, 1 Barronstrand St Waterford. ‘Look Beyond’ is an exhibition of photographs taken by a group of 16 people who have experienced what it is like to live with mental health difficulties. The exhibition is currently touring Ireland.

It was first launched by See Change in Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin 8 on October 25th 2017.

Speaking at the exhibition launch in Waterford, See Change Project Manager Celine Moran said, “We’re delighted to bring ‘Look Beyond’ to Shine Discovery in Waterford. ‘Look Beyond’ is the work of 16 people sharing their experiences of mental health difficulties with us through the lens.”

She continues, “See Change’s main aim is to end the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Ireland. With this in mind, it is paramount our work is informed by people who have personal experiences of mental health problems as they are the people who are best placed to give insight into mental health related issues. I’d like to thank all the participants who took part in ‘Look Beyond’ and Martin Matthews of Shine for helping us to organise this evening.”

Speaking about taking part in ‘Look Beyond’ as a participant photographer, Waterford native Michael Duggan said, “On a personal level the experience of working on the ‘Look Beyond’ photovoice project was very uplifting and fulfilling, an inspirational journey.”

Commenting at the launch Martin Matthews, the Coordinator of Shine Discovery, Waterford, said “Shine Discovery are very excited to bring this wonderful work to Waterford, using photography to create an understanding of how the experience of a mental health difficulty impacts on the person”.

‘Look Beyond’ is an output of a research project conducted by Dr Maria Quinlan and Dr Etáin Quigley from University College Dublin and Maynooth University. It will be on display in Shine Discovery, Waterford until 8th February 2018.