Captured by award-winning photojournalist Jacklyn Wagner, a selection of portraits featuring Lismore flood survivors is now on display at NSW Parliament. The showcase can be found inside the Parliament's Fountain Court on weekdays between 9am and 5pm until Thursday 25 May 2023.
Described as a "love letter to Lismore and its resilient spirit", the exhibition features 100 portraits taken in homes across the city following the February 2022 flooding. It's being hosted at Parliament by Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin MP.
FROM THE PHOTOGRAPHER:
"Walking and driving around the streets [following the flood]… there was an adrenalin-like energy; hundreds of people were helping each other in countless ways. In the back of my mind were the first stirrings of what I might do photographically. I decided I would just let it come to me.
"A fortnight later, I woke up one morning and knew exactly what I needed to do. I would document the actuality of residents in their ruined surroundings, if they would let me, exactly as I found them. I would simply ask them - people who had lost everything or saved something; people who now needed to start reclaiming their homes and lives - if I may take a picture of them. No lights, no paraphernalia - just a picture.
"I knew it was important to document these moments in time…"
Pictured in main image, above: Simon Robinson.
“I thought we were doomed. I rang a friend to say goodbye. I dropped my phone in the water after that call. When they lost contact with me, my family thought they had lost me.”
How to see the exhibition
Visit the exhibition at NSW Parliament House on weekdays, 9am-5pm, from Tuesday 2 May to Thursday 25 May 2023.
The Parliament is currently undergoing restoration works, but remains open to the public. Access is to the left of the building, via the security gatehouse. Visitors can follow the signage into the building and take either the stairs or lift to the Fountain Court exhibition space.
Virtual exhibtion
Can't make it to Parliament House? Explore the artworks and stories of Unconditional Stories in the virtual exhibition space below:
Interested in exhibiting at NSW Parliament?
