PICTORIAL STORY
8th March, 2021
CHOOSING TO CHALLENGE
#IWD #CHOOSETOCHALLENGE
Photography by Suzanne Phoenix
Story by Melanie Meggs
As we mark the annual celebration of International Women's Day, there is a resounding call to honor the remarkable social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world. Now in its 109th year, this special day is more than just a milestone, but an opportunity to recognise the incredible progress made by women globally in their fight for gender parity.
Every year since 2012 Australian photographer Suzanne Phoenix has curated an International Women's Day photography portrait series - What Does International Women's Day Mean to Me?
Suzanne has created an impressive collection of over 100 portraits, featuring inspiring, courageous, shy and outspoken cis and trans women, non-binary people, and others from all walks of life - both from her home city of Melbourne and the Yarra Valley, where she resides. This series includes many well-known artists, activists, authors, musicians, performers, photographers, comedians and fashion designers, as well as boxers, human rights workers, and massage therapists. It is a visual snapshot of the fierce, funny, and extraordinary individuals who have inspired her world.
Through this project, Suzanne has sought to respond to the inequality, discrimination, sexism, misogyny and gendered violence that exists in Australia. Photography has provided her with a rhythm to life, a way of pausing and exploring her creative side without judgment, and an opportunity to grow as a person.
In this 10th year of the project, Suzanne is celebrating with a self-publication of the portraits and the responses from individuals about the importance of International Women’s Day, as well as documentation of project events and poster paste-ups. Unfortunately, due to Covid restrictions it has not been possible for Suzanne to create new portraits.
The self-publication will be available as a printed magazine or book, or a digital download through Suzanne's website and 10% of the profits will be donated to Djirra, an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation providing practical support to Aboriginal people who are currently experiencing family violence, or have in the past.
Thank you Suzanne for giving us this opportunity to share your important work about this very important day for all women.
Header Image: Kristy Harris, 2019 - World Championship bronze medallist boxer
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