From photographed to photographers

Photography exhibit & sale Fri, Mar 30, 5pm Patio Biblioteca Pública Insurgentes 25

The digital photography program at the Biblioteca has, thus far, been an undeniable success. Twelve students have been meeting twice a week, learning about photographic composition and developing their skills. Roaming the streets of San Miguel cameras in hand the students have captured festivals, ceremonies and daily life. They also photographed the surreal work of Lisa Simms at her paper mache/art studio, as well as viewing the documentary-style photo exhibit by Italian artist Danilo de Marco.

Each student has shown a notable aptitude in this art form that is truly breathtaking, and individual styles are starting to show through in all their photos. During the next two weeks they will continue to explore San Miguel with a new vision of their home territory.

Program coordinator Elizabeth Rosas spoke with Atención about this unique program.


[PIX FEATURE 2, 3, 4, 5, 6] A word from the students

Nallely: I am dedicated and focused and I love to capture [through photography] everything!

Citlali: Through my photographs people can know me and know the way that I think

Eva: Photography is interesting and professional and I like to share my photographs with my friends and my teachers

Fernanda: My photographs please others and because my composition is good

Carlos: For me, the exhibition is important so that others can see what I have learned

Atención San Miguel: How did this program come about?

Elizabeth Rosas: I was moved by the Oscar-winning documentary “Born into Brothels”, a film about a photographer who helped children in the red light district of Calcutta see their world through the lens of a camera. I had already developed a photography program at the Rooftop Alternative School in San Francisco, California and the work children created (work which has won awards) inspired me to bring a similar program to the children of Mexico. The idea was expanded to include sharing pictures and emails with a group of kids from that school, giving glimpses into each others lives and to promote understanding between the two different cultures. It is a program that combines art and technology. 

ASM: What is the focus of the program? (no pun intended)

ER: The focus is two-fold. Firstly, for the students to study the art of photography while documenting their individual life stories. They explore their lives through the art form, discovering the richness of their surroundings while simultaneously creating art and building self esteem. Secondly, is cross cultural communication. 

ASM: How do kids approach photography, is their perspective different to adults?

ER: Children see the world through the lens of a camera significantly differently from adults. They rely on instinct to make a great photograph instead of worrying about temporary lack of skills, therefore leaving inhibitions behind. This allows them to create beauty and see the results instantly, which strengthens their belief in themselves. Each student has an element of the art form that comes very naturally, some are great taking photos of people, others are naturals at finding subjects that aren’t traditionally beautiful. 

ASM: What is the impact on the kids, and what impact does it have on the adults who view their work?

ER: I have seen students discover bits of who they are through all types of art. This particular form gives instant gratification. The student sees their mistakes right away and can correct them, making their photographs better. The first time the kids saw their work in a critique, they were nervous and speechless. By the end of the program, they were able and willing to critique each other based on the techniques they had learned. 

As for adults, they are always surprised at the quality that young artists produce, and often comment that the students take far better photographs than they do.

A portion from the Shannon Day performance Saturday, March 24 at 7:30 pm will be donated to this program. If you would like to help contact: Elizabeth Rosas at libbyrosas@gmail.com.

Special thanks go to Linda Soberman and her husband Carlos, the Biblioteca Pública and Art Print for their support of this program.