Then and Now

A powerful photographic project revisiting 25 young patients from Sydney Children’s Hospital, captured through the lens of photographer-in-residence Jimmy Pozarik. From fleeting hospital visits to lifelong medical journeys, the portraits reflect the full spectrum of childhood illness, then and now.

As project lead and creative strategist, I developed the concept, shaped the narrative arc, and directed the visual storytelling across both an in-hospital exhibition and an accompanying book. I worked closely with families, patients, clinicians and creative collaborators, building the trust and relationships needed to bring each perspective to life with care, honesty and emotional depth.

These connections informed every part of the process. Each portrait and narrative was developed in partnership, with families closely involved in how their stories were told. Their voices remained at the heart of the project, ensuring the work was not only accurate, but grounded in meaningful lived experience.

The result: a defining creative landmark that gave palpable human insight into an otherwise incomprehensible world, helping to honour resilience, acknowledge grief, and deepen public support.