The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) is using art to highlight the legal and human rights issues faced by people experiencing homelessness, in an exhibition of works by artists who have first-hand experience of life on the streets.
No Fixed Address marks the 10th anniversary of the Homeless Persons’ Legal Service, which provides free legal advice to people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness at 11 welfare agencies in the inner city.
The exhibition was opened by renowned performer, director and writer, Leah Purcell, on Tuesday 18 November, and will continue at Gauge Gallery, 68 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, until 23 November. You can see photos of the opening on PIAC’s Facebook page.
‘The beauty of this exhibition is that it addresses legal and human rights issues through the personal experience of local artists,’ said Edward Santow, PIAC’s CEO.
‘As well as tackling subjects like alienation, loss of country and hopelessness, the works are a celebration of resilience and life in the inner city.
‘Paintings, photographs and sculptures use pathos, humour, and soulfulness to provide unique and surprising insights into the homeless experience. Many of the works are for sale, with proceeds going directly to the artists.’
Artists include Stephen Corry, Michael Lyons, Chris Barwick, Adrian “AJ ” Jansson, Gemma Lee, David McGettigan, Ian Smith, Irene Charmas, Ray Morgan and James Vincent. Many of the artists have participated in the art class at the Mission Australia Centre in Surry Hills and at the Ozanam Learning Centre in Woolloomooloo.
PIAC, which runs the Homeless Persons’ Legal Service, trains and supervises over 400 commercial lawyers who provide free legal assistance estimated to be worth more than $1.95 million per annum.
Since 2004, the Homeless Persons’ Legal Service has provided almost 10,000 client services to people experiencing homelessness, to assist with a range of legal problems including tenancy, credit and debt, social security, victim’s compensation and family law.
MEDIA CONTACT: PIAC Media and Communications Officer, Gemma Pearce 0478 739 280.
Photo: Leah Purcell and Senior Policy Officer Louis Schetzer.