Mind Exeter launches new photography course

Local mental health charity Mind in Exeter & East Devon are offering 20 places on a free six-week participatory photography course.

As part of the men’s network, this course will take place every Thursday from 16 June until 21 July (1pm-4pm) at the Exeter Community Opportunities (ECO) centre and will provide participants with the opportunity to create photo-stories, photographic themes and a portfolio of imagery.

To deliver the course, Mind in Exeter and East Devon has partnered with Meridian Raw CIC, an Exeter-based social enterprise that specialises in participatory photography projects and community photography course. The course is completely free of charge, no prior experience is necessary and it is open to men living in, or around Exeter. 

Ruth Wells, CEO of Mind in Exeter and East Devon said:

“We’re delighted to be able to offer this fantastic opportunity to take part in a free photography course. Drawing on the expertise of our partners Meridian Raw CIC, participants will be given the chance to learn and develop basic camera skills, take part in inspiring photo-dialogue exercises, go on a photography trip, plan a photography project and build a portfolio of images.

“As well as improving photography skills, this project will give a voice to those individuals who are not always heard, and help local people experiencing social isolation by giving them an opportunity to take part in a creative project and meet other people in the community.”

Although the course will cover the technical side of photography, the main focus is developing a photo-story or theme to present that to a wider audience.  Participants will be supported every step of the way to create a series of images which can reflect aspects of their life, their local community or subjects that they are interested in.

To find out more about the course or to book a place please visit www.mindex.org.uk or contact Richard Dennison on 07970 736677 or email: Richard.dennison@mindex.org.uk