Blue Stories Project - Blenheim

Opening event: Sat 25th February, 2pm
Exhibition dates: 25th February to 11th March, 2023

In 2021, the Blue Stories Project was initiated in Whakatū Nelson by illustrator and designer, Karolina Gorton, and Perinatal Support Nelson, as an exhibition of portraits alongside inspiring and encouraging stories. In 2022 and 2023, the Project is expanding its reach nationwide. Stories from Blenheim and around Aotearoa New Zealand, along with pop-art style portraits created by Karolina, will be exhibited from the 25th of February to the 11th of March at the Marlborough District Library (Blenheim). You are invited to come along and connect with these storytellers and the stories that so often remain untold.

This exhibition has been created in association with Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough (MMWM). Angeline Forlong of MMWM says that, “Sharing our stories is the most impactful way to help others who are feeling isolated, weak or that they are the only one feeling this way.” All are welcome at the exhibition’s opening on Saturday 25th February, 2pm at the Marlborough District Library (Blenheim), where there will be guest speakers and an afternoon tea provided.

“...a deeply moving and profound project...” - Rachel Sanson, Nelson City Councillor

“The PND project display stopped me in my tracks today. Ka rawe! Good to see PND in the spotlight, from first person perspective.” - Rosamund Feeney, Community Programme Coordinator

Kaupapa
The Blue Stories Project supports activities that encourage rerekē mō te pai (change for the better) and te kotahitanga i roto i te kanorautanga (unity in diversity). This is a project that creates a culture of supporting ALL women and their families. It educates communities and normalises the topic of PND.

Ngā mihi nui
The Blue Stories Project has been created in conjunction with Perinatal Support Nelson and Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa (PADA) and with support from the National Lottery Community Grants scheme. These seven organisations are involved in the project: Well Women Franklin, Perinatal Wellbeing Canterbury, Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough, Central Lakes Family Services, True Colours - Honouring the Mother, Greenstone Doors and The Ruth Project.

What’s next?
Look out for our exhibitions in Te Whanganui A Tara Wellington and Tauranga, check the website for dates.

Want to find out more?
Head to www.bluestoriesproject.com to listen to interviews and to see the complete Blue Stories Project exhibition schedule.