Standing Still

We are surrounded by photographs in real life and online. “Photographs perform a variety of roles and functions within and around our lives.” Photographs speak about time and experience – revealing the past by informing and containing memories. Photographs assist the creation of and influencing our view of identity and other interconnected relationships. Photographs promote specific ideologies – ideas, concepts, and beliefs. Photographs can be used and created responsibly or irresponsibly. What world do you see? How do you see the world? Why do we make photographs? In the modern world that we live in, there is very little that can still be described as magic, but the pinhole continues to delight and surprise children. The pinhole is the simplest type of camera, without even a lens, that makes use of a tiny opening to focus all light rays within the smallest possible area to obtain an image, as clearly as possible. The Pinhole Workshop served as an introduction to photography to young students from the surrounding neighbourhood in Lorenzville, Johannesburg. In collaboration with Timbuktu in the Valley, TTLC trainers worked with the participants to further their understanding of how light works, the construction of pinhole cameras, use of darkroom and the ultimate creation of an image. Children were encouraged to bring whatever they had at home that they could potentially make into a camera. The images on display were a result of the workshop.

Through the Lens Collective is a collaborative educational and developmental photographic space created by South African visual artist and educator Michelle Loukidis, who shares a commitment to, and appreciation of, the photographic medium on the African continent. Through photographic training the collective aims to develop creativity, critical thinking and professional practice. Photographic practice is undergoing rapid change. What is of paramount importance is personal vision and voice. Through an educational workspace, the collective aims to assist visual artists/photographers in refining their photographic practice, expanding their visual grammar and developing their narrative skills. In addition, what is of importance is the creation of sustainable structures that support contemporary photographic practice. The courses are aimed at anyone who is passionate about the medium of photography and wishes to use the camera as an expressive Tool.

Timbuktu in the Valley is a Learning Space in Lorentzville, Johannesburg, devoted to equipping local youth with skills that allow them to become independent, self-determined citizens. Our aim is to expose young people to options for possible careers and independent income generation and enable them to become active agents for change in this world.

*all the images were made at Victoria Yards, Johannesburg