About the artwork

The Parkville Biomedical Precinct is home to some of the world’s leading medical researchers, clinicians and academics.

Through 30 Precinct Partners, it delivers outstanding clinical care and education, and produces world-class biomedical research.

This photo essay is to acknowledge and show the human faces who work in the precinct and who play a role in keeping Victoria safe during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

In these images you will see people who:

• have conducted tens of thousands of tests for COVID-19
• nurse and tend to patients with the virus
• safely deliver babies during the time of pandemic
• conduct COVID-19 modelling that’s supporting Australia’s preparedness and response strategy
• have established clinical trials to test the safety and efficacy for potential COVID-19 treatments
• research the impacts of COVID-19 on children in Australia and our Pacific neighbours
• have quickly implemented measures to keep patients safe so they can continue essential medical treatment
• identify clusters and transmission networks to help limit the virus’s spread in Victoria
• continue to provide lifesaving care to patients with other critical diagnoses
• maintain ventilators for patients with the virus
• ensure the hospitals and labs are cleaned and sterilised.

It is thanks to these people that Melbourne remains globally recognised for its innovation in health care.

For this, and for helping keep all Victorians safe and well, all of us at the Metro Tunnel Project would like to say thank you.

About photographer Phoebe Powell

After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Photography at RMIT, Phoebe has gone on to a successful career in photography with clients ranging from boutique wineries to large aviation companies.
@phoebepowellphoto
phoebepowellphotography.com

Artist statement

“As a photographer, I use portraiture to speak to an audience. I am asking the viewer to take a moment and connect with the subject. This connection can be an opportunity for insight into the normally unknown or unnoticed. With these images, we are introduced to some of the dedicated individuals working to manage the pandemic and secure a safe future for us.

“At a time that can feel ambiguous and uncertain, our frontline healthcare workers and our clinicians and medical researchers can inspire confidence, and this series is a work of appreciation and acknowledgement.”