Exhibition Inspires & Informs

We chose to round off Down Syndrome Awareness Week in style with an inspirational photography exhibition at 42a Prices Lane on Sunday 22 and Monday 23 March. Viewed by over 170 visitors, including PSDS members and their families, our therapists, service providers and volunteers, supporters of our charity and members of the local community, “22 we share” featured 47 stunning black and white portraits of our children and young people who have Down syndrome.

The photos were taken by Kate Brackett, whose brother Sam, now 20, was one of the original babies who inspired three mums to launch PSDS back in 2006. Alongside the captivating photos were captions based on the likes and dislikes of each individual sitter. Demonstrating very clearly that whilst we are all unique individuals we have many things in common, reflected in the “22 we share” exhibition title.

World Down Syndrome Day is recognised and celebrated globally on March 21st – reflecting the 3rd copy of chromosome 21 which is typical in a diagnosis of Down syndrome. Looking at things from a slightly different perspective, our trustees wanted to highlight that only one out of 23 pairs of chromosomes is different for a person who has Down syndrome, there are 22 pairs which we all have in common.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the exhibition, Vicky, our Chair, commented: “We can’t take away the cognitive and physical challenges that our members with Down syndrome face every day; but other often unnecessary challenges are imposed through out-dated pre-conceptions about what a person who has Down syndrome may achieve. Assumptions around capability, potential, value that they can bring to society, their ability to work, live independently. In short, a focus on perceived limitations and differences.

Our “22 we share” campaign reminds us that we are all individuals (regardless of any diagnosis). Society is rich because of our diversity. But we also share many things in common.

We hope our exhibition has inspired people to think about our members with Down syndrome as valuable members of society, individuals with choices, preferences, passions and dislikes – many of which will feel very familiar!

We are proud of what our young people achieve every day. By embracing difference and celebrating individuality, and recognising things we all share, we will together build better communities.”