Happy as we are" exhibition

The "Heureux comme on est" exhibition was commissioned by the Maison d'Accueil Spécialisée (MAS) La Châtaigneraie at the Centre Hospitalier de Novillars in 2023. Entrusted to photographer Esther, the work is the result of a four-month immersion in the institution. Through 33 interviews, the daily life, quiet times and outdoor outings were shared with the residents and teams to establish a climate of trust.

The project moves away from demonstrations and explanations to focus on a different perspective on disability. Each photograph captures a gesture, an emotion or a presence, highlighting moments of simple happiness and everyday joy. This photographic series is an invitation to shift our gaze, to look beyond representations and recognise the power of the present moment. The exhibition encourages us to slow down and allow ourselves to be touched by the authenticity of these exchanges, reminding us that happiness sometimes lies simply in being there, as we are.