Sometimes it’s only when a project reaches completion, that it’s possible to appreciate the associated magnitude of true achievement. At the exclusive opening of the Her Sound Her Story exhibition, ahead of its official launch on Friday the 11th of November during Melbourne Music Week, Michelle Grace Hunder and Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore took the opportunity to not only celebrate their success, but to comprehend and be rewarded by the true impact of their tenacity, creativity and commitment.

The photo series was displayed eloquently in the Emporium, and each portrait captured something uniquely beautiful about the particular artist or professional. With every corner, a new face, illuminated by a framework of light squares drawing the eye, yet prompting the mind to look beyond just the physical medium. Every aspect of HSHS makes you want to learn more about these women, with many lucky individuals looking on in awe, privileged to be a part of the project.

But it wasn’t until both Claudia and Michelle addressed the crowd, where the true gravity and impact of the project was revealed. Emotions were high with both creatives commenting upon the challenges they faced as an independent project, and the bond formed between Michelle and Claudia suddenly surfaced as the true crux and backbone of accomplishment.

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Michelle Grace Hunder and Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore joined forces for HS,HS

It was also the experiences they were both able to take away from the process, rather than the product, which revealed itself to be the real reward for the talented creatives, with Claudia commenting; “magic truly does happen, when women stand together”.

In terms of content, it’s almost impossible to pick a singular standout piece, with every portion of the exhibit showcasing a rare and powerful uniqueness within each and every performer or professional. In saying this however, the portrait of Vera Blue was stunningly beautiful, capturing the songstress’ true angelic nature.

There was also an element of true power and fearless determination on display, with the portrait of Karina Utomo surfacing as another must-see art piece. The portrait of Missy Higgins was also completely mesmerising, as beauty so effortlessly collided with complexities and through the wonder of thought, prompted each attendee to allow their mind to wander beyond the physical display.

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Missy Higgins is one of many women beautifully photographed for the exhibition

Each portrait not only highlights, but redefines a true sense of beauty and sense of self. This feeling of accomplishment for not only the women who paved the way or the women currently walking tall, but for the creatives thinking about taking that first step towards pursuing their passion, this was for you and this is what’s important.

HSHS is about representation. It’s about building a strong network of women in the industry. It’s also action, finally speaking louder than words. It’s often hard for young creatives to take the leap of faith so to speak, and sometimes near impossible to attempt to understand their importance amongst a sea of self-doubt and preconceived expectation. At the crux, HSHS is a true celebration of women within the industry yes, but… it’s is also a chance for individuals to turn possibilities into probabilities and thoughts of “if… only” to “look what I can truly become”.

Without this representation, many would choose to fall by the wayside, analysing the risk and consequence associated without pursuing the unknown. Her Sound, Her Story is by no means a passive viewing experience, because you don’t simply arrive to marvel at the photo exhibition or associated multimedia collaboration. It’s a true display of infectious passion, which definitely, definitely, should not be missed.

Her Sound, Her Story is running from November 10 – 24 at Melbourne’s Emporium as part of Melbourne Music Week 2016 – more info available at Emporium and the HSHS website.

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