Williamson Art Gallery set to host exhibition featuring work of Deaf and BSL photographers

Wirral’s Williamson Art Gallery and Museum is hosting an inspiring exhibition featuring work by a local photography group made up of both Deaf and BSL (British Sign Language) users. 

The showcase of work by the Happy Snappers explores the relationship between the Deaf experience and the hearing world. 

Called “I’ll Tell You Later” it sheds light on the barriers D/deaf* individuals face, while showing the Happy Snappers as a powerful example of how inclusive, supportive communities can break down these obstacles. 

Supporting the project was Emma Case, a socially engaged photographer working with local communities. Fluent in British Sign Language Emma has worked with the Deaf community for over 20 years and teamed up with the Happy Snappers on “I’ll Tell You Later”. 

The Happy Snappers are a group of friends who are both deaf and BSL users who get together and enjoy life outside and explore some of the Wirral’s hidden locations and beautiful scenery, and capture these locations on camera. They are not a professional photography group but share the same love of meeting people, socialising and having fun.  

Their exhibition I’ll Tell You Later  is part of Photo Here, a programme of photographic residencies and exhibitions commissioned by Liverpool City Region Combined Authority through Open Eye Gallery as part of this year’s Cultural Events Programme.  

It is intended to give a glimpse into life according to some of the region’s most diverse communities including refugees and asylum seekers, members of the LGBTQI+ community and deaf and BSL users, telling their stories and the stories of the areas they live in, with the help of professional ‘socially engaged photographers in residence’. 

Deputy chair of Wirral Council’s Tourism, Communities, Culture & Leisure Committee, Cllr Ann Ainsworth, said:

“This is a fascinating exhibition giving a real insight into how the Happy Snappers approach their photography. It also shows once again the importance of the Williamson which is always a vital and exciting part of our local arts scene. I would encourage people to come and see the show and support this popular local institution which has so much to offer the people of Wirral and the wider city region and beyond.” 

Sarah Fisher, Executive Director of the Open Eye Gallery said:

“We are anticipating some fabulous work to be featured in the exhibitions from our socially engaged photography groups and are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase them across the Liverpool City Region.” 

The exhibition at the Williamson Art Gallery and Museum runs from 16 July – 25 October and is FREE to view.

Find out more information on the Williamson Art Gallery and Museum website.

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