Get ready for a thrilling addition to Savannah's art scene! The Savannah Center for Photography, a new nonprofit, is set to bring a unique blend of community engagement and artistic appreciation to the city.
A Darkroom Renaissance
In the heart of Savannah, a passion project is taking shape. Founded by Josh Yates, a photographer with an entrepreneurial spirit, this nonprofit aims to revive the art of photography and provide a space for enthusiasts to connect and create. With a focus on both analog and digital processes, the center offers a darkroom, workshop space, and a rotating gallery, creating a vibrant hub for photographers of all levels.
A Stellar Team
Yates has assembled an impressive board of directors, bringing together experts from various fields. From Professor Emeritus Steve Bliss, with his 50-year career in photography, to Erin Dunn, the Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Telfair Museum, and Joshua Lindsey, co-founder of the Savannah Photo Club, the team's expertise is undeniable. This diverse range of skills and experiences ensures a well-rounded approach to fostering the art of photography.
Post-Pandemic Resurgence
The timing of this nonprofit's launch is intriguing. With the success of the Savannah Photo Club, there's a noticeable resurgence of interest in analog photography. The club's monthly meetups have attracted a wide range of enthusiasts, from seasoned photographers to smartphone shooters, all eager to explore the city through their lenses. This passion for photography is a welcome sign of a post-pandemic revival, and the new center aims to capitalize on this renewed interest.
Community Engagement
The Savannah Center for Photography is more than just a space for artists; it's a community hub. Yates hopes to translate this local passion into memberships, offering support tiers and studio subscriptions. The center's equipment, largely donated, including darkroom apparatus from Hilton Head High School, showcases the support and enthusiasm from the community. This sense of community engagement is a key aspect of the center's mission, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
Inaugural Show and Beyond
The center's inaugural show, SCP Presents, is a collaborative effort, featuring works from board members, photographer friends, and acquaintances. All proceeds from the show will go towards supporting the nonprofit's mission. This show is a testament to the center's commitment to providing resources and education, with plans for future classes, critique groups, and potential expansions, including a larger digital lab and alternative process exposure areas.
A Unique Artistic Vision
Yates' artistic vision is a fascinating one. His chosen subject matter, abandoned spaces, is captured in stark black and white, creating a beautiful yet bleak aesthetic. His three main bodies of work, "De/Institutionalized," "American Wasteland," and "Front Row Seats to the End of the World," explore the haunting beauty of decay. This unique artistic perspective is a highlight of the center's offerings, providing a fresh and thought-provoking take on photography.
A Bright Future
The Savannah Center for Photography is a welcome addition to the city's art scene. With its grand opening on June 26, the center promises to energize and inspire. From its community-focused mission to its impressive team and unique artistic vision, this nonprofit is set to make a significant impact. So, mark your calendars and get ready to explore the world of photography through this exciting new lens!
