This 'Beyond the Myths' section of our website is an evolution of the original photographic exhibition jointly funded by Healthway, the Western Australian Museum, The Gordon Reid Foundation for Recreation for People with Disabilities and the Down Syndrome Association of WA (Inc).  The exhibition is the work of Fremantle freelance photographer Mona Neumann,

well known locally for her work on 'Women Experiencing Cancer'.

The exhibition was held at the Fremantle Museum between February and May 1997 and attracted over 8,000 visitors.  Following the exhibition the photos were featured on the Fremantle Museum website and a booklet and CD was produced by the Down Syndrome Association.  The actual photos are now located at the Down Syndrome WA office and other public exhibitions can be negotiated.    

Why this exhibition?

Down syndrome is the most common form of intellectual disability and occurs at a rate of about one in eight hundred live births in Western Australia, as it does throughout the world. Yet it remains largely a mystery to those not touched by it directly.  Myths, rather than realities, are how the general public see Down syndrome. The aim of the exhibition was to breakdown some of the commonly held myths about Down syndrome, to highlight the individuality of each person with Down syndrome and to show their potential. The intention was to show people with Down syndrome leading not extraordinary, but 'ordinary' lives.

Through a series of black and white photographs focusing on the daily lives of people with Down syndrome, this exhibition highlights the richness and variety of their everyday experiences.  Young children and their families, teenagers and adults pursuing independent lives and activities, are all featured.  We hope you enjoy the photos and the all-important text that goes with each one.

Go back to Photo Exhibition