A gritty and unfiltered photography exhibition capturing women participating in sport and being active will open at Bishop Auckland Town Hall tomorrow.
The exhibition, called ‘she thrives’ is part of Durham County Council’s wider she thrives campaign running throughout the month which celebrates women across the region who are involved in physical activity in all its forms.
Capturing authentic moments of women being active in places they live, work and find joy, the exhibition is the culmination of a year-long documentation by professional photographer Lee Dobson and was commissioned by the local authority.
From the edges of the region’s coastline and the quiet focus of poolside training to the concrete of the skatepark and the endurance found on rural roads and community sports fields; the images aim to reveal the many ways women claim space through movement.
Lee’s creativity has helped shape the exhibition into what it is, and throughout the project he took the time to listen, understand and to build trust with each participant.
Cllr Howard Brown, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for adult and health services, said: “This fantastic exhibition hopes to honour women who keep showing up, are strong in their own way, active on their own terms, and who thrive in the face of whatever is coming their way next. We hope the images can inspire more women to find their space to move and push forward, and most importantly, thrive.”
As part of the campaign, throughout March, the local authority is offering a range of free taster sessions, events, and opportunities designed to support women’s health and wellbeing across the county.
Taster sessions will be delivered in partnership with local clubs and national governing bodies and organisations to support women’s health and wellbeing by creating more welcoming opportunities to get active, build confidence and connect others.
These taster activities include Roller Derby, rowing, netball, football, golf, table tennis, indoor cycling, Pilates, swimming, singing and virtual on-demand exercise classes.
Until the end of March, the council is also offering a free seven-day leisure pass to let people explore local leisure centre facilities like gyms, swimming and fitness classes and try different activities at no cost.
To find out more and see what’s on offer from the council, visit: www.thriveleisure.co.uk/SheThrives.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
