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Do you have the consent of the women in the photographs?

Yes. Each woman has given her consent to have her photograph exhibited and sold. Each woman is supportive of the Retreat project. We have shown each woman her photograph and given her a copy of it to keep. We have paid each sitter a small honorarium for her time. We also had a translator with us at all times to make sure everything was clear and understood. Finally, we have had a terrific slide-show in Huay Sara Phom, showing everyone all the photographs we took!

Are there copies of my photograph elsewhere?

Yes. There are just two copies of each photograph. The one you purchase, and the smaller version that now belongs to the woman in the picture. For many of these women, this is the first photograph they have ever had of themselves. For all of them, this was the first time they have sat for a photographer. No additional copies of your photograph will be made.

How will the scholarship participants be chosen?

IWP will take all responsibility for choosing the Retreat scholarship recipients. Because they work across the region, and have done so for many years, they know where the biggest needs are, and which women will be able to use the skills from their retreat to the most advantage. The Retreat artistic team will leave those important decisions up to the experts: IWP.

How do I know where my money is going?

Your money will be sent to IWP. With your consent, they will send you a letter acknowledging your support and letting you know how they will make use of the funds. If you would like, we can send you a copy of the letter between IWP and the Retreat artistic team confirming these arrangements. You can find out more about this amazing organisation by visiting their website: www.womenforpeaceandjustice.org.

Is this a donation?

No. You are buying a piece of art work. You will be given a tax invoice for your purchase, but you will not be able claim this purchase as a donation for taxation purposes. So while your money will be sent to IWP for charitable works, this is not a donation, at least not in the tax deductibility sense.

Is this a women’s project?

Yes. This project was inspired by women and undertaken for women. The Retreat artistic team is made up of women and men. The volunteers that have helped bring everything together are of all genders. This certainly is a women’s project!

Where and what is the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre?

The Queen Victoria Women’s Centre is a vibrant place and space known, valued and used by women to shape the world they want for themselves and for the women of the future. It was established in 1994: the Centre’s heritage building is the sole remaining tower of the former Queen Victoria Memorial Hospital. The Retreat artistic team is immensely grateful to the staff at the Centre for their support and advice. More information about the centre can be found at their website: www.qvwc.org.au.