Hackney snapper’s deaf parents were an inspiration for her photos

A Hackney artist drew inspiration from her deaf parents for her latest photography exhibition, demonstrating how the body can express emotion.

Sussie Mellstedt, of Valentine Road, Hackney, shot self-portraits in San Francisco and rock climbers at Bondi Beach in Sydney for the show, which will be exhibited at the Brick Lane Gallery until Sunday.

Sussie said: ‘Growing up with deaf parents was a silent world, but still very expressive.

“Sign language is a beautiful language and you’re using your whole body and face, while signing.

While my mother couldnt hear, her other senses became even more stronger - she could suddenly sign that the neighbour closed the door and I asked her how she knew. She told me then, that she could feel the vibrations of the slam.

“I learnt how deeply we can connect and express ourselves without sound. With different poses you can express emotions, without showing the eyes.”