TALKING HANDS
Premiering at Industrial Film Fest, TALKING HANDS delves into the story behind my photography project and the workers who shared their experiences with me. By filmmaker Emma Buglisi. Watch it here.
“Zoya’s projects absolutely connect with community. Her work explores stories important for cultural vitality. They are inspired and insightful.”
Why hands?
Through focusing on their hands, workers recalled their experiences in a new way, sharing details that may not have been revealed otherwise. They offered their hands to be photographed unselfconsciously, and often with a sense of pride. Scars were pointed out and tales recounted.
These workers were from a range of backgrounds, working in a variety of industries within Hobsons Bay. Some retired years ago, and their stories of their hands at work provide a rich insight into our history and reveal how innovations in industry have changed the way we work.
Talking Hands engaged and connected the community through the creation of arresting, authentic images and stories that celebrated the workers of Hobsons Bay.
https://issuu.com/lindyallen/docs/2_art_industryfest16_talkhands
Community feedback for Talking Hands
“Lovely work! Very moving and a great sense of connection with the local community.” – Christine McCombe
“What I loved about Zoya’s beautifully thoughtful photos were the similarity of the ‘owners’ descriptive experiences of their hands. Even though they were from completely different occupations the connection between their hands and how they felt about them was quite similar. The exhibition made me reflect on what we have lost in the movement away from manual work into the digital realm. I think it is worth considering the beneficial aspects of manual work and not look at it as an outdated concept but part of what has made us who we are.” – Tony Mead
“Beautiful photos. You have captured the life work of your subjects’ hands and shown their pride which radiates through your pictures.” – Danielle Nash
“Honoured to be asked to model my hands and great photography by Zoya.” – Michelle Simoni
“This was a fantastic opportunity for me and I was so excited to have my hands photographed (in the exhibition space ‘photo booth’). I hope this event happens again so I can see more pictures.” – Sarah Price (12 years old)
“What a brilliant idea and so beautifully executed. The expressive hands behind countless hours of hard work.” – Noelene Dumbrell