Hidden Stories premiere draws a packed house at the Art Gallery of NSW

Hidden Stories premiere draws a packed house at the Art Gallery of NSW

“After watching this video I want people to understand that seeking asylum is a human right and each of us has a story.” — Adrita, storyteller, person seeking asylum

The Art Gallery of NSW was packed to capacity for the premiere screening of Asylum Seekers Centre’s Hidden Stories during Refugee Week. 

Every seat at the Centenary Auditorium was filled. Some were even sitting on the floor. 

All were eager to watch the stories of people seeking asylum in our community. Stories of resilience. Told by those who lived them.

What is Hidden Stories and why does it matter?

People seeking asylum are too often reduced to labels — or left out of the conversation entirely. Many cannot safely share their identities or speak publicly, leaving powerful stories untold.

Hidden Stories was created to change that. The collection shared animated short films from five members of our community: Adrita, Ami, Ayan, Max and Yara.

Working alongside a talented team of volunteer animators for over a year, each storyteller helped shape their film’s script, visual style and sound design to ensure their story was represented authentically. 

The result is a collection of five deeply personal films.

For Ayan, making and watching his story on screen was deeply meaningful. 

“Having the story presented through animation feels special because it allows people to understand my experiences without focusing on my appearance.

“It feels both safe and empowering to know that many people can watch and learn from it.”

A special screening

As one of Sydney’s most iconic cultural institutions and a longstanding partner of the Asylum Seekers Centre, the Art Gallery of NSW provided a fitting space to celebrate the debut of Hidden Stories. 

 The screening opened with welcoming remarks from our CEO Elijah Buol, followed by a speech from refugee writer Thouraya Lahmadi.

Elijah reflected on the importance as well as the urgency of Hidden Stories. 

“At this time, society is very divided around fear and suspicion when it comes to people seeking asylum. 

“Now is the right time to continue pushing the truth that people seeking asylum are people with courage and strength, people who have dreams.

“People who need a welcoming space for them to continue to contribute and aspire.”

Powered by volunteer artists

A special part of the evening was also recognising the work of Hidden Stories writer-producers Maddison Bates-Willis and Ella Palileo as well as the incredible volunteer animators who donated their time, creativity and expertise to bring Hidden Stories to life.

Animation directors Jacob Chantarat, Jo Fong, and Kate Knott were all in attendance.

Jo, who worked on Ayan’s film, reflected on the privilege of getting to know the storytellers throughout the creative process.

 “Chatting to Ayan, his gentle nature absolutely shone through. 

“Meeting him was humbling after working so closely with his words and knowing the sadness he carries having been separated from his family for so long.”

For Jacob, who directed Adrita’s film, the project connected deeply with his own family history.

“My mother arrived in Australia as a person seeking asylum after being forced to flee Laos during the Vietnam War. 

“I believe as a community we need to ensure as many people as possible have the courage to share their voice.”

Kate, who directed the films featuring Ami, Max and Yara, described the project as both a privilege and a joy.

“I hope the films communicate the courage and compassion of the five storytellers – Australia is lucky to have them. 

“I also hope the films inspire people to support places like the Asylum Seekers Centre, and to support vulnerable people in their own communities, and foster connections outside their bubbles.” 

Their reflections highlighted the care, empathy and collaboration that sat behind every frame of the films.

An outpouring of solidarity

When the first screening concluded, a long queue had already formed outside for the next audience eager to experience the films. 

The excitement and enthusiasm throughout the evening were unmistakable.

Guests chatted about the films while enjoying other activities available at the Art Gallery – including Ami’s drop-in tulip origami workshop and a a sound healing session with Max.

Feedback from audiences was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the films as moving, eye-opening and inspiring.

Elijah says, “We are all proud at the Asylum Seekers Centre. 

“It’s so great and people are feeling so happy hearing from different people, different characters, different narratives.” 

Adrita even shares that an audience member approached her afterwards, recognising her voice. 

“She told me she was so moved and that it felt so meaningful that the film even had a Bangla translation. 

“She told me my film reminded her of her own mum, and that she was so proud of me and was inspired to do volunteer work. 

“It made me feel happy that my story could touch someone that way”

This is only the beginning for *Hidden Stories*. We are already exploring opportunities for future screenings and new ways to share these films with wider audiences across Australia. 

Watch this space.

Learn more about Hidden Stories.

*Photography provided by Joshua Morris.