Comber Street Studios
We used a 3-venue set up in the chosen studio of Comber St in Paddington. It was important to have this exhibition in a non-traditionally Palestinian area to promote the stories to a wider audience. A collective power and ambience was achieved through having each room dedicated to a single aspect of the event. From the registration and donation area to the portraits and then moderation of panel, all were connected through each room having a theme.
The execution from an event perspective was simple and effective. A deliberate choice was made to simplify the execution and thus magnify the real stories. It was a cultural event in which we shared stories through a visual and audible format.
Outcome
Through a combination of ticket sales, large private and public donations and the further kindness of guests at the opening we secured nearly half the amount needed by UNWRA in order to keep the school in Gaza operating. Over 200 people attended the opening with the gallery directors informing us that they had never seen the space so alive or full. Guests comprised of importantly the women featured in the exhibition and their families, the greater Palestinian and Muslim Sydney community, academics, local media, and supporters of The Boweress and Ballare Co network.
We partnered with floral designer E Squared flowers allowing the event through a floral installation to be tied together as a display of generosity, beauty and sharing.
Conclusion
The event was held during one of the deadliest times in the Arab Israeli conflict and in turn gave hope to those who needed it most. The event was a celebration of womanhood, cultural identity and progression through education and dialogue. Voices were heard and stories were shared in a afe and supportive environment.
