In social forms of art, social interaction and participatory aspects of the practice are essential. Socially engaged art practice offers the opportunity to identify the structures underlying complex systems in contemporary society, allowing artists to intervene through artistic and social means creatively and effectively. In this field, we recognise that an artist’s value does not reside solely in the outcomes of what they produce but in new knowledge and methods that they learn in the process of making.

However much of the process is often obscurred or challenging to document. By learning and discovering aesthetic strategies and documentation methods which make the process viable and meaningful to audiences, socially engaged artists expand current photography literacy.

Using photography and lens-based media, 13 students from the Socially Engaged Photography Module at NTU School of Art, Design and Media, showcase their research processes of collaborating with participants from various social contexts in this inaugural exhibition. Their projects explore a myriad of compelling topics such as, caregiving, ageing, environmental conservation, animal rights, gender equity and rejuvenating spaces. Students seek to engage with and apply current discussions of collaboration, participation, authorship, documentation, and responsibility in their projects.

Participating Students: Chan Jiong Hao, Chen Min Jien, Evelyn Chong Jia Ling, He Jingni, Mikaylah Lepua, Liu Aoyang, Marie Alicia Kwan Ka-mei, Justin Neo Geng Yao, Eunice Oh Zhi Yi, Rebecca Lim Zhao Chu, Sim Siew Png, Joy Tang Chen-xi, Yuki Tiew Hiew Foo.

FREE PROGRAMMES

Photo Credit: 3Pumpkins

3Pumpkins is a socially-engaged arts organisation specialising in relational work, creating opportunities to strengthen human connections, especially for vulnerable communities. Come and hear from Shiyun, Managing Artistic Director, 3Pumpkins, at this special lunchtime talk.

Shiyun will highlight their community-based initiatives, including successful photography projects, such as “This is what we eat at Home”, featuring 12 children and youth from very diverse households in Boon Lay.

Date: 11 January 2023 (Wed), 12.00 pm – 2.00 pm

Venue: Athena Room (located next to North Spine Foodcourt, Level 2)

Photo Credit: Brack

Conducted by artist and facilitator, Editor-in-Chief at Brack, Kei Franklin, this is an experiential workshop not to be missed!

Drawing from modalities like systemic embodied coaching, family constellations, and theatre of the oppressed, this workshop invites participants to reflect upon their work and daily practices through body movement, mapping, co-reflection and writing. Suitable for both artists and non-artists.

Date: 18 January 2023 (Wed), 12.00 pm – 2.00 pm

Venue: NTU Global Lounge