‘No negative – Just Positive’

For too long the images of people with HIV and AIDS in Africa have been pessimistic and patronising.  Today, in Ghana, responsibility is being taken by the people themselves for their own lives.  With the help of government agencies, religious institutions and the family unit, many are living longer, healthier and happier lives.  However, stigma is still a problem; therefore, the battle is not just fighting the illness, but also the ingrained attitudes.

‘No negative – Just Positive’ is the second documentary that Paul V Kelly has produced around the theme of HIV / AIDS in West Africa.  If you would like to see the first project entitled ‘One Goal’ please visit www.pvkphotography.com.

This work specifically deals with the generally unseen element of pro-activity in relation to AIDS awareness and support currently operating throughout Ghana.  For the Photographer, one of the biggest motivations to produce this work in an optimistic way was derived from his research that showed governmental movement towards helping victims, which has occurred since his previous documentary in 2003.  Somewhat surprisingly, the Ghanaian Department of Health accepted responsibility for the health of HIV / AIDS patients by agreeing to pay 95% of the costs of anti-retrovirals (AVRs) i.e. the drugs that allow these people to live healthy and productive lives within their communities.

All of those pictured represent the many individuals currently living with either HIV and AIDS in a positive manner (see individual image captioning).  The documentary is also intertwined with gently, personal, non-directed images produced by the individuals to represent themselves showing what gives them the courage and strength to live positive lives.

email: pvkphotography@yahoo.co.uk