A unique perspective: Out and about with our Emerald Explorers Photoclub
The Digital Voice team love an excuse to get out and about in the green spaces of Gateshead, of which there are many, so imagine our excitement when we were asked to run our popular PhotoClub project as part of Gateshead Arts Team’s Emerald Explorers programme.
Emerald Explorers began in 2022 as a response to coming out of the pandemic, particularly how much being outside in nature benefitted people’s mental and physical wellbeing. Since then the programme has involved hundreds of pupils from schools across Gateshead to be inspired by nature and explore their creativity; families have loaned Emerald Explorers backpacks for outdoor adventures from their local libraries and adults have taken part in creative wellbeing walks and art workshops, using the four seasons to spark their own creativity.
Digital Voice invited young people with SEND and their families to join our Photoclub and explore Gateshead in a different way. At each session, the families worked together with our very own Julie Nicholson and Robin Cowings, learning how to take pictures on iPads, using a variety of different lenses, and then how to edit and enhance their photos, each one giving a unique perspective of some of Gateshead’s best-known places. The group have really enjoyed exploring the borough and have been to The Shipley, Baltic, Dunston Staiths, Gibside, Whickham Community Garden, Saltwell Park and an extra trip to the beach.
Their brilliant photographs are now on display at Gateshead Civic Centre, in an exhibition that was opened by Councillor Sharron Potts, Deputy Mayor:
“I attended this exhibition on Saturday and what a privilege it was. The talent and enthusiasm from the children knows no bounds. Showcasing some of the beautiful areas in our borough and captured beautifully.”
And here’s a snippet of what members of the group said about the project:
“I would say it is a joyful experience with supportive staff. As a SEN parent it gives you a chance to breathe. It is a great introduction to new photography and a good way of re-looking at your world. Relaxed, chilled group with no stress or expectations. Just enjoyable and inclusive and able to opt in and out as needed.”
The exhibition is open from 13th October and will run for three weeks. You'll find it on the ground floor of the Civic Centre as you approach Bewick's Cafe.
Do catch it if you can!
Emerald Explorers is funded by Arts Council England, Culture Bridge North East and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.