Inspired by the BP Spotlight: Jo Spence display at Tate Britain, participants use their own cameras or camera-phones to be both photographer and subject, exploring the dynamics of the photo shoot, producing the self and learning to see with care.
Event programme
Day 1 – Saturday 18 June
11.00 This morning session begins with an introduction to the workshop by Grace Gelder, a chance to get to know each other and opportunity to view the Jo Spence display with a discussion lead by Lorna Robertson from Tate Britain’s Curatorial Team and Grace Gelder.
13.00 Break for lunch
14.00 A discussion about self-portraiture followed by a series of related self-portrait exercises starts the afternoon session. Working with different task briefs, we explore self-representation and the possibilities and limitations of photographing ourselves. A homework exercise for the following Saturday is introduced by Grace Gelder.
Day 2 – Saturday 25 June
11.00 The second day starts with a group discussion and sharing session of homework tasks completed during the intervening week. Participants begin to explore the interpersonal dynamics of the photo shoot through partner exercises without a camera, in preparation for the afternoon session.
13.00 Break for lunch
14.00 Inspired by Spence’s collaboration with Rosy Martin, participants explore in partners the role of director from the position of both photographer and subject. The workshop closes with a discussion of our practical experiences.
Biography
Grace Gelder is a photographer and facilitator using photography as a tool to create transformative experiences for her clients. Since completing an MA in Documentary Photography in China in 2007 she has facilitated participatory photography workshops with a range of groups, often collaborating with charities and organisations that support women’s empowerment and wellbeing, such as Standing Together and The Jagonari Centre. Her photo shoots – both nude and clothed -promote acceptance of the body in all forms, and her private portrait commissions utilise therapeutic techniques. Grace describes this approach as ‘seeing with care’ and her shoots have helped individuals around the world to develop a healthy perception of themselves.
- Find out about Gelder’s New Years New Desires photography project
This event has been provided by Tate Gallery on behalf of Tate Enterprises LTD
