Get ready for a thrilling addition to Savannah's art scene! The Savannah Center for Photography, a brand-new nonprofit, is set to open its doors this month, bringing a unique blend of community, education, and artistic expression to the city. Personally, I find this development incredibly exciting, as it not only revives the traditional art of darkroom photography but also fosters a sense of community and appreciation for the visual arts.
A Darkroom Renaissance
In an era dominated by digital imagery, the Savannah Center for Photography dares to bring back the magic of the darkroom. With a fully equipped black-and-white darkroom at its heart, the nonprofit aims to provide resources and education to photographers of all levels. This initiative is particularly fascinating because it taps into a post-pandemic resurgence of interest in analog photography. The Savannah Photo Club, founded in 2023, has already attracted a diverse range of enthusiasts, from professionals to smartphone photographers, all eager to explore the city through the lens of their cameras.
A Stellar Team
At the helm of this exciting venture is Josh Yates, a photographer with a national career and a passion for community engagement. Yates, along with a stellar board of directors, has assembled a team with diverse expertise in fine art, photography, academia, and arts administration. This includes Steve Bliss, a renowned Professor Emeritus of Photography at SCAD, and Erin Dunn, the Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Telfair Museum. With such an impressive lineup, the nonprofit is poised to make a significant impact on Savannah's art scene.
A Community Hub
The Savannah Center for Photography aims to be more than just a darkroom; it's a community hub. Yates hopes to translate the passion of the Savannah Photo Club into memberships, offering annual support tiers and monthly studio subscriptions. Most of the equipment has been generously donated, including darkroom apparatus from Hilton Head High School. The nonprofit's inaugural show, "SCP Presents," will feature works by board members, photographer friends, and acquaintances, with all proceeds going towards the venture's success. This community-oriented approach is a refreshing take on the traditional art gallery, inviting everyone to participate and contribute.
A Focus on Education
Education is at the core of the Savannah Center for Photography's mission. The nonprofit plans to offer classes for beginners and advanced photographers alike, taught by the esteemed Steve Bliss, Parker Stewart, and Yates himself. Additionally, they are exploring the idea of a monthly critique group, providing a platform for photographers to receive feedback and grow their craft. This focus on education and community engagement is what makes this nonprofit truly special and sets it apart from traditional art institutions.
A Look into the Future
While the initial offerings are already impressive, Yates and his team have ambitious plans for the future. They envision expanding the center to include a larger digital lab, matting and framing areas, and alternative process exposure areas. This expansion would cater to a wider range of photographers and artistic processes, solidifying the Savannah Center for Photography's position as a leading art institution in the region.
A Welcoming Addition
The Savannah Center for Photography is not just a welcome addition to the city's art scene; it's a necessary and energizing one. With its focus on community, education, and the revival of traditional photography techniques, the nonprofit has the potential to inspire and engage a diverse range of artists and enthusiasts. I, for one, am excited to see the impact this organization will have on Savannah's artistic community and the conversations it will spark.
Mark your calendars for the grand opening on June 26th, and be sure to follow the Savannah Center for Photography's journey as it unfolds. It's an exciting time for art in Savannah!
