An 85^th Birthday Present

The publication of a new book and a companion exhibition are a highlight of St.Giles 85^th birthday celebrations this week.

Face Time, 27 Stories of St.Giles was conceived during COVID 19 as an 85^th birthday project. St.Giles was formed in 1937.

Click here to access the PDF version of Face Time

The interviews were collated during COVID in 2020 and 2021 and today the exhibition will officially open at Gallery 5, Royal Park Art Gallery.

“COVID presented a unique window for St.Giles – we began during the 1937 polio epidemic and there was a story to tell of people living through COVID,’’ St. Giles general manager Profile and Engagement Danielle Blewett said.

Interviews for the book were taken by highly regarded historian Bridget Sullivan Arkless and images by award-winning photographer, Scott Gelston.

Twenty-seven, large format images on aluminium book comprise the exhibition at Royal Park, which is open until June 25. The exhibition is supported by the City of Launceston, TPT Wealth, CommBank Staff Foundation, City of Hobart and Libraries Tasmania.

Subjects for the book were chosen for their diversity of interaction with St.Giles – from children to staff, retired board members and donors.

“While their time and place are 85 years removed from the origins of St.Giles, their purpose, experience and St.Giles activity are connected’’ Ms Blewett said.

Face Time is on show in Gallery 5, QVMAG Royal Park until June 25 2023.

To obtain a physical copy of the Face Time book, please contact our team via fundraising@stgiles.org.au for a suggested donation of $20 plus postage.

The publication can also be accessed as an E-Book via Google Books.