PHAA Prize Winning Image 2023: ‘World’s Apart’
I was awarded the Public Health Art Prize (PHAA) for 2023. My photograph titled ‘World’s Apart’ aimed at capturing the stark contrasts in the social conditions of fishermen and the profound impact on their human rights.
The PHAA’s statement about my work highlights its significance:
“The photo, taken in Sydney, illustrates how someone’s social conditions can influence their life and human rights. In the submission, Jean also highlighted the contrast between this man working alone on the ground on a dirty fishing wharf cleaning a large net barehanded without tools or protection, and the modern industrial development nearby.”
The Public Health Significance
The subject matter holds considerable public health significance for me. The fisherman’s situation exemplifies how social conditions can dictate human rights and quality of life. His barehanded work on a grimy wharf, devoid of tools or protection, stands in sharp contrast to the regulated environment of the nearby development site. This discrepancy highlights critical issues related to health, safety, and the fundamental rights of workers.
My Artistic Reflection: The Power of Contrast
In my artist’s statement, I elaborate on what inspired me to capture this moment:
What caught my attention was the stark contrast between this man of foreign background, working alone on the ground on a dirty fishing wharf, cleaning a large net barehanded without tools and protection, and the modern industrial development site nearby.
The social conditions resulting from a lack of regulatory compliance and the often-ignored health and safety protocols in the industry greatly affect the human rights and working conditions of fishermen. This exploitative, profit-driven industry shows little regard for prosecution for wrongdoings, leaving workers with minimal security.
The fisherman I encountered was living onboard a fishing boat as he was unable to afford accommodation on land. His living conditions were rudimentary to say the least . He had little to no rights, could not complain, and his very survival hinged on the whims of the fishing business owner. His timely completion of tasks was crucial; any delay could have jeopardised his ‘job’, leaving him homeless.
Many workers in the industry are migrants, with or without visas, further complicating their social conditions. In stark contrast, workers on the modern development site benefit from respected working conditions, returning home to family and community—freedoms and securities that the fisherman can only dream of.
Social Justice is the raison d’être of public health. This important sociological concept was first introduced by the French philosopher Emile Durkheim (1858-1917) who theorised that individual behaviour is not only influenced by internal factors, but also by external societal factors.
Conclusion
Through my photograph and commentary, I hope to shed light on the urgent need for greater awareness and action regarding the conditions faced by those in the fishing industry. ‘World’s Apart’ challenges us to reflect on the disparities in our society and the importance of advocating for the rights of all workers.