jenny smith

"Are they a girl or a boy?" That question is often asked about a newborn. But what if you're born with genetic variations in sexual development, also known as intersex conditions, and possess both typical male and female physical traits? New legislation tabled in the ACT is set to limit the scope of medical treatments and surgeries for such children. Intersex activists have campaigned hard for the law saying the human rights of the child to bodily autonomy is paramount. But some argue not all lived-experience voices are being heard, and are concerned the new laws could criminalise clinicians, carers and parents.

One of the first workshops at Art Walk Porty which starts next weekend is rather unusual. It’s called ‘Drawn to Dance’ and will be held at Bellfield on Saturday morning. It’s part of series of workshops created by the artist Jenny Smith, all of which ask: “What are YOU drawn to?” The aim is to get people to express themselves, letting their imaginations run free. 

The workshop is a collaboration between Jenny and Sarena Wolfaard who has been working with what she describes as 'conscious dance' for 15 years. Between them, they encourage participants to start with dance but then go on to create something visual as well, using chalk and charcoal to produce images on paper scattered across the floor or on tables. David Calder went to meet her.

The workshop costs £35 if booked in advance (£45 on the door) and places are limited. They can be booked online by following the link below

https://tinyurl.com/y2zfbdtd