The Shadowland exhibition provided a thought provoking reminder of the plight of refugees said City of Greater Geelong's Community Development, Youth, Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs portfolio holder Cr Lou Brazier.
Cr Brazier said the exhibition consisted of a series of two metre tall banners featuring striking black and white photographs of local refugees along with their personal statements.
Shadowland is being jointly exhibited at City Hall and the Gordon Gallery until 27 July.
"This is a compelling and confronting exhibition highlighting the experience of refugees and asylum seekers and I encourage members of the public to take a few minutes to view the images and consider the stories represented," Cr Brazier said.
"Council declared Geelong a Refugee Welcome Zone in 2002 as part of its commitment to humanitarianism, racial tolerance and cultural diversity.
Cr Brazier said the Refugee Welcome Zone movement was an initiative of the Refugee Council of Australia.
"Geelong has a demonstrated history in welcoming people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities," said Cr Brazier.
"More than 15 per cent of Geelong's population comes from countries other than Australia and our city has seen significant social, economic, cultural and environmental benefit as a result of this diversity," she said.
Shadowland postcards outlining the exhibition details are available from the customer service desk at City Hall.
The exhibition will be officially launched by Council's Arts, Culture and Education portfolio holder Cr Peter McMullin at the Gordon Gallery from 4.30pm Thursday 7 July.
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