A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION BY ANNAH STRETTON
Illuminating the invaluable contributions that women who have incarceration in their history can and are making to society through consented imagery
OPEN NOW AT CURATE @ 148
- 148 Thames Street, Morrinsville (next to our HQ)
No cost to visit
RAW Beauty can be viewed alongside our I Am Woman Exhibition, both at Curate @ 148.
Curate 148 is a new gallery space adjoining our Morrinsville head office, making it the perfect location to visit while enjoying a browse at our Flagship store and Cafe Frock
For groups of 5 or more, book your guided tour via the button below
Want to make a day of it? Let us know if you would like a table reserved at Café Frock before or after your visit to the exhibition
What to bring: To enrich your visit and enjoy the full scale of the exhibition, we recommend bringing a pair of headphones with your mobile device to listen to the audio transcripts as you move through the gallery.
OPEN NOW AT CURATE @ 148
- 148 Thames Street, Morrinsville (next to our HQ)
No cost to visit
RAW Beauty can be viewed alongside our I Am Woman Exhibition, both at Curate @ 148.
Curate 148 is a new gallery space adjoining our Morrinsville head office, making it the perfect location to visit while enjoying a browse at our Flagship store and Cafe Frock
For groups of 5 or more, book your guided tour via the button below
Want to make a day of it? Let us know if you would like a table reserved at Café Frock before or after your visit to the exhibition
What to bring: To enrich your visit and enjoy the full scale of the exhibition, we recommend bringing a pair of headphones with your mobile device to listen to the audio transcripts as you move through the gallery.
Reframing Beauty and Belief: A Review of Annah Stretton’s RAW Beauty
9th June 2025
"In RAW Beauty, Annah Stretton brings her finely attuned lens – and her legacy as a fashion designer and social changemaker – into intimate, revelatory focus. This powerful series of photographs, first shown in Aotearoa New Zealand, captures wāhine with histories of incarceration in a way rarely seen: with care, consent, and creative agency. Each portrait is a testament to strength reclaimed, a restorative reversal of the stigma of the “mugshot”, and a symbolic turning of the tables on systems that silence women. Accompanied by personal testimony and audio interviews, the work restores voice and mana to women who have long been represented by others. These are not subjects captured; they are collaborators creating a visual record of resilience, sovereignty, and possibility. With generosity in both concept and execution, RAW Beauty is a bold act of reframing – of both image and narrative. It returns the power of self-representation to women whose vitality and beauty are palpable in the image, expanding it beyond the frame. Each takes control of the curation and critique of their own image, working closely with the artist who gifts the freedom of choice and the right of informed consent. As artform, each image is packed with movement, framed up-close, and pulsing with unique character. The combined visual-aural elements build yet further depth within the twodimensional form, this portraiture has filmic qualities. In Stretton’s hands, the camera becomes a tool of transformation, a lens of re-invention in both technique and composition, and in the elevation of the stories of women who now lead, mentor, parent, and advocate. The exhibition and its kaupapa radiate care, beauty, and the radical potential of belief – belief in second chances, in community, and in the right to be seen on one's own terms. In a world where images can be taken, this work gives something back: dignity, authorship, and hope."
- Gill Gatfield, Artist & Author
"In RAW Beauty, Annah Stretton brings her finely attuned lens – and her legacy as a fashion designer and social changemaker – into intimate, revelatory focus. This powerful series of photographs, first shown in Aotearoa New Zealand, captures wāhine with histories of incarceration in a way rarely seen: with care, consent, and creative agency. Each portrait is a testament to strength reclaimed, a restorative reversal of the stigma of the “mugshot”, and a symbolic turning of the tables on systems that silence women. Accompanied by personal testimony and audio interviews, the work restores voice and mana to women who have long been represented by others. These are not subjects captured; they are collaborators creating a visual record of resilience, sovereignty, and possibility. With generosity in both concept and execution, RAW Beauty is a bold act of reframing – of both image and narrative. It returns the power of self-representation to women whose vitality and beauty are palpable in the image, expanding it beyond the frame. Each takes control of the curation and critique of their own image, working closely with the artist who gifts the freedom of choice and the right of informed consent. As artform, each image is packed with movement, framed up-close, and pulsing with unique character. The combined visual-aural elements build yet further depth within the twodimensional form, this portraiture has filmic qualities. In Stretton’s hands, the camera becomes a tool of transformation, a lens of re-invention in both technique and composition, and in the elevation of the stories of women who now lead, mentor, parent, and advocate. The exhibition and its kaupapa radiate care, beauty, and the radical potential of belief – belief in second chances, in community, and in the right to be seen on one's own terms. In a world where images can be taken, this work gives something back: dignity, authorship, and hope."
- Gill Gatfield, Artist & Author
"We all found the images individually captivating and collectively powerful."
"The four of us that visited found the photographs spoke something different to each of us.
However we all found the images individually captivating and collectively powerful. The women came away quietened and thoughtful. Challenged in our thinking and perceptions.
Thank you for continuing to challenge & shift mindsets"
- Sherryll
- Sherryll
RAW Beauty: Press Release 2025
Reframing Incarceration: The RAW Beauty Exhibition
The intent of my photographic project, RAW Beauty, is to "talk back" to societal perceptions of incarcerated women. This collaborative image-making project prioritises the subjects’ agency and consent. RAW Beauty seeks to counter the narrative of criminality, celebrating a female community that has previously been vilified through unauthorised and stolen imagery. It highlights the valuable contributions that women with incarceration in their history can and are making to society.
RAW Beauty celebrates the incredible transformations of women who have overcome adversity and now stand as examples of pro-social and legal success. Through powerful collaborative imagery, we focus on their strength, resilience, and the remarkable accomplishments they’ve made. These women are a testament to the transformative power of opportunity, hope, and support, highlighting the beauty that emerges when we embrace second chances and realise our true potential.
Reclaiming Identity Through Photography
How can feminist photography produce emancipating images that enhance societal understanding of incarcerated women as capable of driving their own change?
The imagery in RAW Beauty centres on photographs of RAW women, with whom I have enduring relationships. My aim is to privilege and amplify their voices post-incarceration through a photographic method that strengthens self-worth. This work exists within RAW, an organisation that seeks to dismantle societal barriers and promote inclusion. My approach positions the women as co-creators of their self-image.
As one of the RAW women involved in this exhibition shared:
“This exhibition is a stark reminder of what is possible when someone believes in you against all odds, they believe in you more than you believe in yourself. That level of belief is life-changing. It is the difference between lost potential and a life packed with meaning”.
A Journey Into Photography
My journey as a photographer began in 1979 at fine arts school in Dunedin. Initially, I did not value my artistic potential and pursued accountancy, a path that eventually led me to the fashion industry. In 2022, a photography night class rekindled my creative passion, leading me to critique and refine my work. This journey has culminated in my master's studies, using photography to enhance social impact alongside written work. RAW Beauty has been a transformative experience for both myself and the women involved.
Collaboration and Ethical Considerations
As a photographer, I have challenged myself to privilege the subjects’ voices through collaboration. This project required ethics approval due to its sensitive content and potential impact on the RAW women. At all stages, including the final exhibition, the women have the ability to withdraw their consent. My work reflects a decade of privileged relationships with some of New Zealand’s most marginalised women, many of whom have experienced incarceration. Most now constitute the core of the RAW alumni, demonstrating the courage to enact pro-social, legal lifestyle changes.
Maree, one of my academic supervisors, reflects:
“When I was first approached to co-supervise Annah, my initial reaction was hesitation. But as I learned more, I saw the immense value of this work. Annah is a powerhouse—a woman who is driven, focused, and unstoppable when she sets her mind to something.”
A Tribute to Second Chances
For the past decade, I have actively advocated for the voices of incarcerated women through RAW. The aim is to facilitate purposeful advancement and positive self-determination. Many RAW women are now working with disadvantaged youth, speaking at forums, running businesses, and achieving academically. Their voices are crucial in influencing public policy and driving change.
As one of the RAW women involved in this exhibition shared:
“What has made this experience especially special for me... is that the imagery captured the end goal while I was still navigating uncertainty. This project somehow acted as another tool of encouragement during moments of doubt.”
RAW privileges the incarcerated voice within the correctional conversation. By empowering women to self-determine positively, we enhance the credibility of their voices, which have long been unrecognised in the correctional system.
Kia Ora koutou. Thank you for being here tonight. It is an absolute privilege to stand among so many incredible women, surrounded by these stunning photographs that speak to perseverance and success. RAW Beauty is not just an exhibition; it is a movement to change perceptions, create opportunities, and celebrate the strength of women who refuse to be defined by their past.
Viewing by appointment only The exhibition is located at 148 Thames street, Morrinsville This is part of the Stretton Clothing head office building Contact Tony 0274 982844 to arrange viewing
The intent of my photographic project, RAW Beauty, is to "talk back" to societal perceptions of incarcerated women. This collaborative image-making project prioritises the subjects’ agency and consent. RAW Beauty seeks to counter the narrative of criminality, celebrating a female community that has previously been vilified through unauthorised and stolen imagery. It highlights the valuable contributions that women with incarceration in their history can and are making to society.
RAW Beauty celebrates the incredible transformations of women who have overcome adversity and now stand as examples of pro-social and legal success. Through powerful collaborative imagery, we focus on their strength, resilience, and the remarkable accomplishments they’ve made. These women are a testament to the transformative power of opportunity, hope, and support, highlighting the beauty that emerges when we embrace second chances and realise our true potential.
Reclaiming Identity Through Photography
How can feminist photography produce emancipating images that enhance societal understanding of incarcerated women as capable of driving their own change?
The imagery in RAW Beauty centres on photographs of RAW women, with whom I have enduring relationships. My aim is to privilege and amplify their voices post-incarceration through a photographic method that strengthens self-worth. This work exists within RAW, an organisation that seeks to dismantle societal barriers and promote inclusion. My approach positions the women as co-creators of their self-image.
As one of the RAW women involved in this exhibition shared:
“This exhibition is a stark reminder of what is possible when someone believes in you against all odds, they believe in you more than you believe in yourself. That level of belief is life-changing. It is the difference between lost potential and a life packed with meaning”.
A Journey Into Photography
My journey as a photographer began in 1979 at fine arts school in Dunedin. Initially, I did not value my artistic potential and pursued accountancy, a path that eventually led me to the fashion industry. In 2022, a photography night class rekindled my creative passion, leading me to critique and refine my work. This journey has culminated in my master's studies, using photography to enhance social impact alongside written work. RAW Beauty has been a transformative experience for both myself and the women involved.
Collaboration and Ethical Considerations
As a photographer, I have challenged myself to privilege the subjects’ voices through collaboration. This project required ethics approval due to its sensitive content and potential impact on the RAW women. At all stages, including the final exhibition, the women have the ability to withdraw their consent. My work reflects a decade of privileged relationships with some of New Zealand’s most marginalised women, many of whom have experienced incarceration. Most now constitute the core of the RAW alumni, demonstrating the courage to enact pro-social, legal lifestyle changes.
Maree, one of my academic supervisors, reflects:
“When I was first approached to co-supervise Annah, my initial reaction was hesitation. But as I learned more, I saw the immense value of this work. Annah is a powerhouse—a woman who is driven, focused, and unstoppable when she sets her mind to something.”
A Tribute to Second Chances
For the past decade, I have actively advocated for the voices of incarcerated women through RAW. The aim is to facilitate purposeful advancement and positive self-determination. Many RAW women are now working with disadvantaged youth, speaking at forums, running businesses, and achieving academically. Their voices are crucial in influencing public policy and driving change.
As one of the RAW women involved in this exhibition shared:
“What has made this experience especially special for me... is that the imagery captured the end goal while I was still navigating uncertainty. This project somehow acted as another tool of encouragement during moments of doubt.”
RAW privileges the incarcerated voice within the correctional conversation. By empowering women to self-determine positively, we enhance the credibility of their voices, which have long been unrecognised in the correctional system.
Kia Ora koutou. Thank you for being here tonight. It is an absolute privilege to stand among so many incredible women, surrounded by these stunning photographs that speak to perseverance and success. RAW Beauty is not just an exhibition; it is a movement to change perceptions, create opportunities, and celebrate the strength of women who refuse to be defined by their past.
Viewing by appointment only The exhibition is located at 148 Thames street, Morrinsville This is part of the Stretton Clothing head office building Contact Tony 0274 982844 to arrange viewing
Shannon - RAW Alumni
5th March 2025
"Kia Ora kotou. Thank you for being here tonight. 5th March 2025 It is an absolute privilege to stand among so many incredible women, surrounded by these stunning photographs, that speak to perseverance and success. Being part of the RAW Beauty project has been more than just an opportunity to get creative with someone dear to my heart, it has been a tribute to second chances and a journey shared with my RAW whanau, who inspire me daily. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge Annah, not only as an incredible artist but for the many, roles that you play in my life. You are a faithful nurturer, a stimulating mentor, a remarkable role model and the most amazing friend. You have a gift for capturing the essence of a journey, including the moments of doubt, and the ultimate triumphs. What has made this experience especially special for me...is that the imagery captured the end goal while I was still navigating uncertainty. This project somehow acted as another tool of encouragement, during moments of doubt. And now, as I stand before this piece, I am deeply reminded of a journey which demanded much faith, and strong advocacy. And that's something I particularly want to highlight tonight...the power of advocacy. This exhibition is a stark reminder of what is possible when someone believes in you against all odds, they believe in you more than you believe in yourself. That level of belief is life-changing. It is the difference between lost potential and a life packed with meaning. So, a massive thank you—to Annah, to my RAW whanau, to everyone here who understands the importance of lifting others up. May this exhibition serve as a reminder of what we can achieve together.
Maree - Poutiaki Whakataki Curator
5th March 2025
"Kia ora Koutou, When I first was approached with an external co-supervision opportunity , my first reaction was hesitation- do you really need this on top of the day job Maree. Then I heard it was Annah and I thought well really- what is the proposal?? Although I had never met Annah, I had always admired her longevity and resilience in the very challenging New Zealand fashion arena, and I also sort of knew that she was a a sponsor, maybe champion of womens refuge. It was only through the supervision process that I learnt about RAW and understood the importance and continued impact that this organisation is making As a supervisor, my job is to support students through their learning journey, but when the supervision is best, it’s a great learning opportunity for me too and I can honestly say that in this case I too have indeed learnt a lot. Tamsin Green, Annahs chief supervisor is unable to be here tonight due to being unwell but has asked me to convey some words which I think summarises both our sentiments, regarding this photographic project. Annah is a powerhouse A woman who is driven, and once focused on a task, quite unstoppable So I had no doubts that this would be an ambitious and professional fine art exhibition It is also more than that This exhibition questions the boundaries we might use to define ‘Fine Arts’. We have all often discussed the limitations of clinging closely to the supposedly fine art qualities - when they are concerned only with form. This is a scholarly challenge, but one that Annah was unsurprisingly up for. She is wholly driven to make an impact Art has an impact when it works with and for people, As RAW Beauty Does What I am most excited about for this body of work is the personal reflective ethical work that Annah has undertaken in developing a way of making images for people and with people - people who matter and who are shown in their full mana in these works. As a photographer myself, my ethnical guiding principle is the question: who is photographing who, for who? This work is truly for its subjects shown here, and the first audience, the owners, and the co-producers of this exhibition. Thank you for your mahi Annah- We can all be proud"
RAW Beauty Exhibition, Open Now!
Camille Interviews Shannon on her RAW Beauty Portrait