Earlier this week, the In Camera exhibition opened at a new arts space in the Collingwood Housing Estate.  This exhibition is used as an outlet of four residents from the Quin House abstinence-based supported accommodation facility who intends to recover through awakening their artistic sensibilities in photography.

The community development worker of Quin House since last September, Renae Formiatti, changed their direction from the traditional treatments to an artistic approach in favor of their rehabilitation process.  Included in the community-oriented and creative approaches are regular outings to Malthouse Theatre productions, comedy festivals, music lessons, community services, and also workshops conducted by photographer Pia Johnnson who is a volunteer in the facility.

Credits: Simon O’Dwyer

The photographer Pia Johnson conducts a weekly workshop to direct recovering addicts in focusing on a creative hobby and discover their artistic potentials.  The workshop lasts for two hours including basic tutorials in composing, adjusting to light, focusing subjects, and simple post-processing through Photoshop.

It seems that photography is used as a tool for the addicts to recover which is great since it can expand horizons.  Their photographs will get better and that will give them a sense of accomplishment.

The In Camera exhibition at the Collingwood Underground Car Park will be open until June 24.  Four among a group of eight residents from the Quin House will be displaying the photographs that they are proud of.