This group exhibition showcases photographic works by 18 artists from disability organisation and therapeutic horticulture program, Kevin Heinze Grow.

The artists used a method called ‘photovoice’, using photography to explore and share their experiences.

These works were created during a research project with Deakin University PhD student, Megan Dennis.

Therapeutic Horticulture

Many people have heard of art, music, or animal-assisted therapy, but therapeutic horticulture is less well known.

Kevin Heinze Grow (located in Doncaster and Coburg) is a therapeutic horticulture program that offers garden-based activities for people with disabilities using the GROW model: ‘Gardening for Recreation, Occupation and Well-being’.

Research suggests that spending time in nature is good for us. However, there is not much research in Australia on gardening as therapy, particularly from the perspective of people with disabilities.

As part of her PhD research, Megan wanted to learn more about what neurodivergent people and people with disability think and feel about spending time in nature in the Kevin Heinze Grow program 

Photovoice

Photovoice gives people a different way to express their ideas by taking and sharing photos. It also offers a way to hear from people with different communication needs and preferences.

Participants at Kevin Heinze Grow were given cameras to capture their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with therapeutic horticulture from their perspective.

After taking as many photos as they liked over two weeks, artists chose two photos to share and give a title to. The artists could also talk more about the photos they chose.

In photovoice, it is the artist that is leading the story by offering insight into their experience through the camera lens.

What You’ll See

The participants became co-researchers, documentarians, and artists through taking the photos you see here.

The photos reflect the artists’ first-hand experiences at Kevin Heinze Grow. Many of the photos are of favourite places, plants, colours, and activities, infused with their personalities and insights.

Importantly, not all experiences were the same. Each artist had a different story and a different perspective to share.

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