Celebrating Resilience: Portrait Exhibition Honors Addiction Survivors

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Developing Health & Independence (DHI), a charity based in Bath, is hosting a powerful portrait exhibition to honor those who have overcome addiction. The exhibition, held at the Museum of Bath at Work from November 5-8, presents the stories of people who have utilized DHI’s services, each photograph capturing their journey from darkness into light.

A Personal Journey Captured in Portraits

The photographs, taken by Darius Jéan, who himself is a DHI alumnus, reveal moments of resilience, growth, and newfound purpose. Jean explained his vision: “I wanted to show people coming out of the darkness and into the light,” reflecting the hard-won journeys of the individuals in each frame.

Jean credits DHI with providing him stability and support at a critical time in his life, ultimately helping him pursue an honors degree from Bath Spa University. Inspired by his experience, he is now working on a coffee table book featuring 25 individuals, each representing a year of DHI’s work.

Stories of Transformation

Among those featured is Laura, whose struggle with crack, heroin, and spice addiction once led to a life-altering explosion in her home and a prison sentence. With the guidance of DHI’s criminal justice team, she overcame her addiction, re-entered society, and is now a Peer Mentor, leading support groups for others in recovery.

A Legacy of Compassion and Empowerment

Founded in 1999 by Rosie Phillips, DHI has dedicated itself to helping individuals across Somerset and Bristol rebuild their lives through housing, education, and substance abuse treatment. Phillips expressed her commitment, saying, “I love seeing people gain their sense of place in the world, and get their self-esteem back.”

This exhibition not only celebrates DHI’s impact but also highlights the courage of those who have embraced the journey to recovery, each portrait a testament to hope and resilience.