Voices of Hope launches Behind the Smile exhibition with Someday Studios

AUCKLAND, Today: Voices Of Hope and Someday Studios have launched Behind the Smile, an innovative audio-visual exhibition directed by Tom Gould. Featuring 11 Kiwis, it sheds light on their mental health journeys through art and storytelling.

Held at Auckland’s Allpress Studio, the exhibition offers an immersive experience. Visitors can listen to personal stories while viewing striking imagery, fostering empathy and understanding.

This project builds on the success of Behind the Jersey, expanding the conversation on mental health struggles. Genevieve Mora, Voices Of Hope co-founder, emphasises the importance of art in sharing these stories authentically.

“We are on a mission to inform, empower, and spread hope to those struggling with mental health, by amplifying inspiring voices of lived experience.”

Mora reflects: “We are on a mission to inform, empower, and spread hope to those struggling with mental health, by amplifying inspiring voices of lived experience. For this campaign, it was really important to tap into the power of art to share the stories of everyday kiwis, in the hope that audiences would resonate, and see themselves and their vulnerabilities represented in art in a way they never have before.”

Partnering with Someday Studios was crucial in realising this vision. Mora adds: “Someday Studios was a natural partner… they understand the depth of our vision and the impact we aim to achieve.”

Henry Hewat, Creative Director at Someday Studios, echoes the sentiment of collaboration: “Working with Voices of Hope has been a privilege… it’s about making a difference and amplifying voices that need to be heard.”

The exhibition is open to the public until 8 March, 2024.

• More information here