What are the Hey! Workshops?

The Hey! Visual Storytelling Workshops were established by the CPB Learning Lab in 2023 for individuals with neurodivergence and intellectual and physical disabilities. The workshops use mobile phone photography and app-based activities, and lens based art for verbal and non-verbal individuals to express themselves. These monthly workshops provide an environment of inclusivity and sharing of stories through simple and fun activities and interactions. The word Hey! connotes a casual hello, a greeting, a welcoming and friendly vibe and is used to attract attention, to express surprise, interest and bewilderment.  With this positivity CPB Learning Lab has built workshops for the community to come together to creatively express themselves through the medium of photography and storytelling. The workshop is an environment of inclusivity and sharing of ideas and stories through simple and fun photography based activities and interactions.

Photography as a therapeutic art form

Did you know that In India, about 2.2 million people are either neurodivergent or disabled according to the National Institute of Mental Health and NeuroSciences (NIMHANS). A research found by Professor Denise C. Park from the University of Texas states that Photography as a highly cognitive activity, helps improve brain activity and overall creates a positive effect on an individuals’ mental well being.

Photography offers a simple yet powerful tool for self-expression, emotional regulation, and social connection. It empowers neurodivergent individuals, as they have a heightened sensory perception that allows them to examine and understand details in ways that neurotypical people often can’t. Disabled individuals with motor abilities have been making excellent strides in performing arts and visual arts across the world.

For queries or more information to host a workshop or support the Hey workshops, write to shuchi@chennaiphotobiennale.com