Where Art Thou? Column – July 2007
Making a Difference With Photography
People come into our lives for a reason, either to teach us, love us, inspire us, or save us, and Mark Pendergrass is one of those people who has done all of these.
Mark dedicates his Saturdays to teens in the Stratford Richardson YMCA Photojournalism program to teach them photography, thereby providing them with a creative outlet as opposed to their being bored or even getting in trouble on the weekends.
The work that comes from these teens is remarkable. I went to the opening night of their exhibit at ImaginOn and saw students’ creative work developed from skills and techniques that I wish I knew when I was their age. Their photos were emotional, (not an easy skill to ascertain), and since they are only between the ages of 12-19, they have so much more learning ahead of them.
Mark is offering these teens a great gift by giving them something to look forward to every Saturday, and not only teaching them the art of photography, but introducing them to what other photographers are capturing.
I was introduced to Mark’s students when they visited my Art and Soul of Southend booth both in 2006 and 2007. Mark was showing them the many artists’ works and I got the chance to explain how I photographed my window reflections.
As I was explaining my technique to them, it made me think of my days as a teenager. These teens are very lucky to have someone teaching and influencing them. I didn’t have that privilege when I was young of learning how to use a camera, nor did I even know how strongly I would be interested in this art form until later in high school.
These kids are doing something great for themselves and at the same time, being involved in the community.
Several of Mark’s students have been published in local Charlotte publications and some have moved on to college.
Inspire others and be inspired in return.
Other Art Events This Month:
Disney’s The Lion King
Belk Theater
July 12 – August 19
Tickets $22.50-$125.00
www.blumenthalcenter.org
James Gregory
Comedian – www.funniestman.com
McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square
Friday, July 27 @ 8:00PM
www.blumenthalcenter.org – tickets
By: Laura Vossberg
laura@ElevateCharlotte.com
