Arts Learning Grant

I aim to connect young adults to the arts using photography and by offering a safe space for them to experiment, make mistakes and explore their voice through the camera. Learning to supportively evaluate their own photos and those of others will increase their artistic skills and their ability to critically review other art forms. I chose to create a club versus a class because I want members to be invested in the direction of the club and for them to take ownership in their learning. This will happen organically if they continue to show up, engage, ask questions and express themselves creatively. The images they produce are a tangible outcome of the club. On their first meeting, most took over 50 digital photos! In the process, they slowed down, observed their world and expressed excitement over details captured through new angles of view and unusual lighting. Their growth, connection to their surroundings, creative thinking and collaborative learning are all intangible outcomes. At our first club meeting in September, it was clear members are excited to learn and use photography as a tool for exploration. I gave a short lecture on composition and they stayed engaged, answering questions I posed to them. They filled out a short survey on how they would like the photo club to evolve, and expressed interest in learning many photographic subjects as well as longer term projects like making a zine. I will continue to gauge their interests throughout the year with periodic surveys and will also survey any new students. I hope to create a private social media platform for the club to upload, share and archive their photos and memories. The zine and exhibit will allow members and I, as well as the public, to look back on what the students have learned and gained from their hard work over the year. When the exhibit details are secured, we will reach out to local media to announce the exhibit. Viewers can leave comments in a guestbook.