Photos breaking down cultural barriers

Works such as this photo of a boy eating a sausage show Somalis as well-adapted New Zealanders. Picture / Mark Hamilton

If you don't know anything about them, you're a little bit afraid. They are so visibly different and perhaps we don't see past that sometimes."

That's the view of Crystal Ardern, concept leader of a photographic exhibition which captures rare footage of a Somali community adjusting to the New Zealand way of life.

The 30-plus images have been compiled by local photographer Mark Hamilton for the exhibition which runs until March 12 at Waikato Museum.

Some of the tools and fabrics found in a typical Somali home, including traditional goat-milk containers and a wedding outfit, are included. And poetry is also on display because Somalia is known as "the nation of poets", says Ardern.

The Somali community is one of New Zealand's newest and most misunderstood, she says.

This year, after London's terrorist bombings, there were several attacks on Auckland mosques. Some Hamilton Somalis were verbally abused, and a highly publicised and unproven rape allegation against an unknown "Somali" driver eventually forced the closure of a city taxi business.

Stereotypes included a reputation for doing little work - or for earning money only by driving taxis - and for being illiterate.

"That's something we started playing around with early on, how people view them and how they view themselves," says Ardern.

Little was known about the culture and lifestyle because the community appeared hidden, almost secret. But any perceived veil of secrecy is a misconception, Ardern says. "Having not worked with the community before, I found them really open and really welcoming. They are more than happy to engage with the rest of us, given the opportunity."

During the project Ardern shared meals with the community, visited a mosque, and went to a Somali wedding.

Ardern wants the exhibition to benefit Somalis while challenging the wider community. The aim of the images is to socially educate and break down barriers. The project would show Somalis as well-adapted New Zealanders.

The picture of a happy little Somali boy tucking into a New Zealand sausage is a good example of that, says Ardern, and that's why the picture is her favourite.

"We are more alike than different. They have a great sense of humour, and are very grateful people. I see them as very peaceful. As with any religion, the main aim is to be a good person. It's the same with Islam."


What: Rare View, a glimpse into Hamilton's Somali Community photographic exhibition
Where and when: Waikato Museum of Art and History, Hamilton, to March 12