‘What’s in Focus?’ The work of Pendleton photography students is captured in local gallery
26 November 2018
Photography students from Pendleton Sixth Form College are currently having their work exhibited at Salford Art Gallery. The ‘What’s in Focus’ Exhibition was opened earlier this month and will remain open until February 2019.
(Poster artwork designed by Karl Robinson, FDA Graphic Design student from the University Centre at Salford City College)
‘What’s in Focus?’ is a collection of work which has been produced by BTEC and A-level Photography students currently studying at the college. The exhibition focuses on the surrounding and local area and will be displayed at the gallery for a period of 3-months. Cath Stanley, Photography Teacher at Pendleton Sixth Form College, said: “The opening of the exhibition earlier this month was such a success! We had such a good turn out and I am so proud of the work of our students, it looks so professional. The feedback whilst we were there was amazing and someone even commented that they did not believe this was the work of 16-18-year-olds. “The concepts outlined in each student’s pieces of work really showcased their creativity and challenged them at a much higher level. With that in mind, the opportunity to have this work celebrated by being placed in such a prestigious gallery Is wonderful for the students, us teachers and the college as a whole.” Students involved in the project also see this significance of having their work displayed in such a prominent, local gallery. Katie Speak, whose work is currently on display, said: “I am happy I have had the opportunity to exhibit my work in our local art gallery. I think it’s great that the local community has the chance to see what photography is all about at Pendleton.” Samuel Shiels, another student involved, added: “Producing work for the art gallery is a fantastic way to engage with the wider community and show the quality of all student’s work, which explores a diverse range of concepts.” The student work exhibited is based on their areas of interest, it reflects their current photographic practice. Individuals have worked with a diverse range of concepts using both digital and traditional methods of photography. Salford Museum and Art Gallery is one of the most predominant artistic and cultural hubs in the city. They offer an exciting programme of permanent displays and exhibitions along with events for the whole community. The space has been a Salfordian landmark since 1850 and is well-known as being the UK’s first free public library. The What’s in Focus Exhibition is the first of it’s kind for Pendleton students, but another student-led exhibit will be opening in July, this time with a family focus. Cath added, “Socially engaged photography is quite popular at the moment, so it’s no surprise this exhibition has already sparked lots of interest from students wanting to get involved. For the Focus on Family Exhibition, I am encouraging more of a collaborative exhibition between both students and their family members – it’s all very exciting!” The ‘What’s in Focus’ Exhibit will be on display at Salford Art Gallery until February 2019 and admission to all is free of charge. To find out more please go to: https://www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk/culture/whats-on/focus