1 in 3 people are lonely in Australia and 9 million people feel lonely in the UK.

But loneliness is a hidden epidemic. The shame and stigma that surrounds loneliness can prevent us from speaking up and getting the help we need.

 

  • Lonely Together is an immersive street art exhibition composed of photographs and audio stories of loneliness. This exhibition is designed to reduce shame and stigma by creating spaces for people to listen to real local stories and by inviting them to share their own experiences and ideas to tackle loneliness in their community.

    The exhibition aims to:

    • Show lonely people that they are not alone in their loneliness.
    • Start a conversation about loneliness and the power of opening up.
    • Encourage and signpost to available services that combat isolation and loneliness.
    • Send a message to policymakers and those in leadership positions about what lonely people need to feel less lonely.

  • With real people and real stories, this exhibition shows us that loneliness can affect anyone at any time. It creates space to talk and open up about our own experiences with loneliness.

    Visitors are invited to scan the QR code, put on a set of headphones and move through the exhibition. The piece runs on a loop for 20 minutes, but you decide how much of this you want to experience and what path you want to take. We only ask that you listen with an open heart and an open mind.

    You’ll hear stories from people who live in Greater Sydney or London. Once you’ve listened, we invite you to write down your own story and add it to the exhibition. We’d also love to hear your ideas of ways to tackle loneliness in your community.

    Help us demonstrate the power for connection in the things we share as humans. Help us show that loneliness is nothing to be ashamed of.

  • Lonely Together has exhibited at several locations in London and Sydney.

    It’s not currently showing publicly, however if you’d like to feature the exhibition at your event or workplace, please get in touch.

  • This exhibition was initially created in London by Australian counsellor and author, Tessa Day and art director and photographer, Irene Palacio.

    It has expanded here in Australia with photography by Anna Hay, and with the support of The Salvation Army, Lendlease and Darling Quarter.

 
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