We’re excited to share the launch of a new exhibition at the ONJ Centre - Through the Pinhole by Melbourne-based artist, writer, and teacher Alice Chipkin.
Through this exhibition, Alice shares a deeply personal visual record of her experience with cancer treatment and recovery. “I am a words person. But in 2022, words failed me. As cancer treatment brought my 30-year-old body to a shuddering halt, time warped,” shares Alice.
Alice turned to photography – using the camera to seek moments of clarity and make sense of her changing world. This collection of 24 images captures moments of stillness and reconnection; black-and-white scenes of quiet domestic life alongside vivid colour photographs marking her gradual return to movement and light.
“These photographs are how I moved through that year and the process of healing that followed,” reflects Alice. “Half were taken during treatment, half after as I returned to colour when I felt like a part of this world again. These photographs are my deep breaths.”
While Alice did not undergo her treatment at the ONJ Centre, since the works have been installed, they’ve already sparked heartfelt responses from the community. Jordy Kornfeld, Art Therapist and organiser of this exhibition, remarks, “Even in the short time since Alice’s artworks went up, we’ve heard from countless patients, carers, staff and volunteers about how meaningful these works feel on the walls. There is a softness, intimacy and honesty in Alice’s photographs that gently invites us into her experience. It’s a privilege to see the ONJ community taking those same deep breaths alongside her.”
If you’re curious about exploring or processing your cancer experience in a creative way, or are simply looking for an alternative support for your mental health, we invite you to reach out to our ONJ Art Therapy team at arttherapy.onj@austin.org.au.