Photographs capturing human life in the urban landscape. The collection unveils the beauty of the city while posing the question, do we have to feel isolated?

In 2020, after some migraines and general fatigue, I finally went to an GP. An MRI revealed a large brain tumour, which once removed, left me with a brain injury and aphasia. It rocked my confidence and my sense of identity.

With the help of family, friends and countless health professionals I am now re-learning to communicate, move and socialise. But most importantly I feel more connected with myself and have learned to be present. Honestly, it was a bit of a shock, but I realised that my mental health was in significantly better shape after my experience than it had been in the years before. Did I really need a life-changing trauma to reveal it?

I use photography as therapy and a vehicle to communicate. Words fail me more than they used to. Through my lens I want to see real people and express ideas about the city spaces we share and how we connect.
 
This exhibition is an invitation to observe the city with me, and asks, how connected are we?

Dave Nettle is a finalist in the 2023 Don Dunstan Foundation Award for artwork in this exhibition.