Voiceless Journeys Book

To date, Voiceless Journeys is one of Ondru’s most significant bodies of work. The book expresses the silent stories of 101 people who, through conflict or necessity left their countries to make a new life in Australia. Images found within the book were initially large-scale installations that were exhibited on the streets of Melbourne. This brought the project to life and became the inspiration for the book.

The Voiceless Journeys book has been produced to communicate the need for a more compassionate society, where there is a greater understanding of others, where diversity is celebrated and used to build a better sense of community.

The spine of the book reflects the original archive system of record storage. It also represents the stripping away of covers that reveal human stories where there is great courage and resilience within. The creation of the book inspired and empowered all those involved. The book continues to reflect society as we know it today.

Eduard P.

“I was initially reluctant to participate in the project, but later I was stunned by the large photograph of myself on the street. It lifted me up to feel that my story matters. People thought I was famous, but I’m not famous…I was understood and respected for what I had gone through…it meant a lot to me.”

“I came here with just two suitcases and now I have made a life. Music and art has really helped me a lot. I struggled with depression for some time before. Now I look to relax my soul with music and art and these creative things.”

Original Book Launch

The Voiceless Journeys book was originally launched on Friday, 28th October 2016 at the Allpress Studio, in Collingwood, Melbourne.

For this event, Tasneem Chopra, renowned social justice spokesperson, and former CEO of the Melbourne Theatre Company, along with Senior Manager of the ABC Radio National, Ann Tonks, were invited as guest speakers. During the event, the public were invited to meet those who are featured in the book and to experience the courage and strength of the human character. Live music, inspirational talks and powerful portraits were also a feature of this significant event.