Celebrating South Sudanese women

Nanchok Santino Chol. (Damjan Janevski) 342306_01

An exhibition paying homage to women from the South Sudanese community has opened in Melton.

She Will is an interdisciplinary project initiated and led by local artist Nanchok Santino Chol in collaboration with Buok Duach.

The exhibition features a series of photographic portraits and interviews.

Chol drew inspiration from her personal archives to highlight the stories of the women who have contributed to the growth of the west’s South Sudanese community over the past 10 years.

“She Will is about emphasising the importance of community and how community is vital for collective and individual growth,” she said.

“The women that I have had the privilege of capturing through this exhibition have built and strengthened their communities over many years.

“I believe that every woman has a story to tell, and they should be given that space to share that story.

“I hope this exhibition encourages young girls and women to have open dialogue and start documenting life through photography and videography mediums.”

Melton mayor Lara Carli said Chol is part of the council’s Groundwork emerging artists program.

The exhibition is at the Melton Library and Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie Street, Melton, until October 5.