Free Photography Classes For Sunset Park Teenagers

SUNSET PARK – Eight teenagers will get the opportunity to learn the ropes of photography this summer for free.

Direct Impact Coalition is an “independent non-profit offer[ing] sustained, direct support to migrant-origin communities in Latin America, creating bridges between the immigrant diaspora and homeland communities.” Last year, Direct Impact Coalition raised $3,000 and five cameras. The Brooklyn-based organization went to the mountains in Mexico in a town called Tamazulapam del Progreso to sign eight kids, from ages 10 to 22, up for eight photography classes. Now, while working with Back to the Lab, they’re bringing the classes to Sunset Park thanks to a grant from the Citizens Committee of New York and using the space at P.S. 1.

“We are looking for students who are interested in expanding their knowledge of photography by learning both image-based storytelling and technical skills with cameras supplied by our program,” Sean Sirota, one of the instructors said. “Our goal is not only to give students access to storytelling tools but to help them develop their own perspective and creative style as they share these stories from their own community.”

Classes will be held from August 5 to August 8 and August 12 to August 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at P.S. 1 on 309 47th St. Here are the requirements to apply:

To be eligible, you must be either a resident of or student in Sunset Park, entering 8th, 9th, or 10th grade this fall. You must demonstrate an interest in photography and provide a letter of reference.

• Learn the technical aspects of photography, with the use of a DSLR
• Be guided by two mentors, who have a combined 30 years of photography experience
• Explore how photography can tell your personal story and document issues in our community
• Hear from guest photographers who will take you on nearby field trips to practice your new art and gain a new perspective
• Participate in a workshop finale exhibition, where you will present your own documentary photo project

When Bklyner profiled founder of Direct Impact Coalition Anita Bulan earlier this year, she said, the purpose of these classes is  “Ultimately… empowering them to tell their own stories. These fine arts are not things that ethnic kids are grown up with. Like go do your science or go be a lawyer. Photography is unnecessary or a luxury.”

“I’m thrilled that we’re able to bring two weeks of free summer programming to an underserved community where the creative arts aren’t always given enough emphasis,” Bulan said about the new Sunset Park classes. “My hope is that this partnership between Direct Impact Coalition and Back to the Lab can flourish into something more permanent in NYC neighborhoods where communities are excited to welcome us.”

For more information and to apply, visit their website here!