An exhibition of photos and stories celebrating women whose courage, generosity and abilities have shaped the community will open Friday 14 February at Newcastle Region Library.
She: true stories, ordinary and extraordinary highlights entries from the recent competition and provides an opportunity to experience stories and photos that showcase women in our community. The exhibition is an initiative of YWCA Hunter Region in partnership with Newcastle Region Library and Hunter Writers Centre.
The YWCA began the She: true stories project to honour and recognise the influence of women past and present. The exhibition includes material from YWCA Hunter Region’s 93-year history of supporting, empowering and connecting women and families.
“Everyone has a cherished memory or image of a woman who has made a positive impact on them, but these stories are often hidden or lost over time,” said Literary Public Program Coordinator Carol Edmonds of Newcastle Region Library.
“Through the She: true stories project, we intend to bring some of these stories to light, share them with a wider audience, and create an inspiring collective portrait of the influence of women in and from our community.”
The community is invited to a free exhibition launch event Friday 14 February from 5:30-7 pm in Newcastle Region Library’s Lovett Gallery. The event will include music by Meags Hill, light refreshments, readings, prizes from the She: true stories competition, and an appearance by the Waratah Girls’ Choir at 6 p.m. RSVP by February 10: ywca.portrait.project@gmail.com or 4929 2954. Other events related to the exhibition are listed below.
YWCA Hunter Region Executive Director Jenny Baldwin said, “We are so pleased at this opportunity to celebrate diverse examples of women’s courage, strength and love.
We hope that She: true stories will increase understanding and appreciation between generations and among the rich diversity of people who call the Hunter Region home.”
Exhibition 14 February – 22 March, 2014
Newcastle Region Library, Lovett Gallery
She Exhibition Launch
Friday 14 February, 5:30-7 pm,
Lovett Gallery, Newcastle Region Library
Exhibition Events Program
Thursday 20 February, 10:30 am, She Rock and Rhyme Time
Stories, songs, rhymes, dancing and music for children under 3. Free entry.
Thursday 27 February, 9:30-11 am, She Cares: YWCA Playgroup presents a kid-friendly introduction to the exhibition and activities highlighting the importance of women in the children’s lives. Meet at 9:30 at the YWCA, 24 Dawson Street, to walk together to the Library. $7 per child/$9 per family. Newcomers welcome!
Friday 7 March, 5:30-7 pm She Moves: an evening of dance celebrating International Women’s Day. Featuring an original dance by RIPA (Regional Institute of Performing Arts), the Desert Delights belly dancers, and circle dancing. Light refreshments. Free entry.
Thursday 20 March 20, 6-7 pm, She of Newcastle: Margaret Henry in conversation with Jude Conway. Key moments and fascinating women in Newcastle’s history. Light refreshments. Free entry.
