A County Durham photographer committed to celebrating overlooked and underrepresented communities is shining a light on children with Down Syndrome this month.
Debbie Todd, an award-winning photographer from Stanley, County Durham, is exhibiting an array of stunning portraits highlighting the incredible personalities and talents of children with Down Syndrome.
Debbie designed her fine-art style portraits to capture natural, candid moments which spotlight the ways in which children with Down Syndrome enrich the world around them.
The exhibition, entitled ‘Extra Ordinary’ will take place at the Metrocentre, Gateshead and run for four weeks from today (Friday, March 21), which also marks World Down Syndrome Day.
Debbie, a master’s degree graduate of the Northern School of Art, said: “I called the series ‘Extra Ordinary’ to reflect the fact that children with an extra ‘21’ chromosome with Down Syndrome are just the same as all other children. They have their own personalities and likes and dislikes and their own sense of self and style.
“Whether it’s through art, music, sport, or other passions, each child brings something special, making life brighter and more inclusive for everyone they meet.
“I hope that the impact of my exhibition is that people are be able to see how loved these children are and that they are unique, valuable members of society.”
Several parents have also commented on the positive impact of the project on their children.
Laura Sharpe, mum to Lucy who sat for one of the 43 portraits said: “Debbie’s ability to change people’s views through visual storytelling is groundbreaking.
“We’re very honoured that Lucy is part of the this project to raise awareness that the old stereotypes of people with Down Syndrome are dramatically out of date.”
Calum’s mum, Louise commented that ‘Extra Ordinary’ is, “an amazing project – I’m so proud Calum is part of it, spreading awareness and inclusivity to everyone.”
Lisa, mum to Zack who also features in Debbie’s portraits said her son “really enjoyed having his pictures taken, and we had a great day meeting with other families.”
Since 2018, Debbie has been taking portraits which are grounded in social engagement and focus on communities not always given the attention they deserve.
As a working-class photographer, her art also aims to shed light on the complexities of life at the intersections of class, identity and culture, and her ‘Extra Ordinary’ project does just that.
“More than just a showcase of their abilities, this project challenges stereotypes and highlights the deep connections, empathy, and the positivity they inspire whilst remembering they are also children, rather than defining them by a label,” she said.
“Through the lens, we see not just their individuality but also the powerful way they bring people together, proving that the world is a better place with them in it.
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“The project has developed well with lots of families keen to share their beautiful children and the positive impact they have on their lives.”
Debbie also plans to create a book of her ‘Extra Ordinary’ photos and is already working on a new show focusing on the meaning of being different, which is expected to be displayed at Bishop Auckland Town Hall in spring 2026.
Debbie’s showcase, ‘Extra Ordinary’ begins on March 21 at the Metrocentre, Gateshead and will be situated between the green and blue quadrants, near to the Next store. If you want to learn more about Debbie’s work, you can find her website at https://debbietodd.co.uk/
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