See it like it is ... ... ... ... ... ...
See life through the eyes of young people.
Not prejudiced by opinion.
Not filtered by spin.
Not distorted by the media.
There is no respect agenda, just young people – raw, honest, angry, happy, bored, beautiful, lazy, active, concerned, vulnerable, empowered...
‘I photographed my hopes and dreams and aspirations… emotions I’ve felt… places I’ve been and enjoyed… things that scare me… things I have to abide by…’
– Simon, Kingston and Wimbledon YMCA
One day in 15 locations around 200 young people took more than 4,000 photographs of things that are important to them. On the same day photography students from Central St Martins College were on hand to use their skills to capture the real lives of young people.
Young people shunned by society, who have found a home at the YMCA after being homeless, who have battled with addiction or rejection, who want to give something back, enjoy having a laugh, hanging out with their mates or playing football. Life is a mess of contradictions, uncertainty, disappointments, dream, hopes, and ambitions. And young people’s lives are no different.
‘One day we will be the ones making the decisions.
Listen to us, find out what’s important to us.
And then we can build a future together.’
– Mark, St Helens YMCA
Don’t turn away: See it like it is
See it like it is is a national photography exhibition which gives a voice to young people who are part of the YMCA. We are a leading Christian charity committed to supporting all young people, particularly in times of need. Our work always starts with the needs of an individual, and supports and helps them to develop in body, mind and spirit. We focus especially on encouraging young people to fulfil their potential and participate actively in their communities.
‘I hope people like my pictures and it makes them happy.’
- Jack, Sutton Coldfield YMCA
Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf, London, SE1
9 to 12th March 2006......... 11am to 6 pm
Bargehouse is an exciting atmospheric space in the heart of London's fast moving South Bank and Bankside areas. An untouched four-storey building, in its raw state Bargehouse is a blank canvas with tremendous scope for exhibitions and events. Bargehouse is owned and managed by Coin Street Community Builders.
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