A Degree of Despair - Artist Statement

How do we treat people in despair? Too often, with contempt. We “other” those living with addiction, abuse, poverty, limited education, or mental ill-health and excuse neglect as personal failure.

In Australia, the promise that hard work and education are enough is fraying. Only 1% of rentals are affordable on minimum wage. Most careers begin in debt. Foodbanks and community housing now support people who once thought they’d never need them.

This series asks us to look again. If stability rests on shaky foundations, who is deemed “deserving”? I photograph the edges of comfort to say this clearly: dignity, shelter, and support are basic rights, and any of us could need them tomorrow.