Six young people from Whitby High School were challenged to explore their personal relationship with the current climate crisis. The In View exhibition presents the results of this photography project. The main gallery show is accompanied by a digital window exhibition Through Our Eyes showcasing work from six year 10 students from Gateacre High School, Belle Vale.
For In View, Open Eye Gallery has been working with long-standing partners Whitby High School in Ellesmere Port. With the theme of climate change in mind, six students have been inspired by the LOOK Climate Lab on display at Open Eye Gallery earlier this year and have worked on their own photography projects.
These projects explore the complex relationship between growing up as a young person in Ellesmere Port and a global battle with the world’s climate crisis. From rising sea levels to local green spaces, these six individuals have used their visual language to explore what climate change means to them and their future.
Anna Wijnhoven, creative producer for schools and young people said: In View has been an incredible journey of learning, discussion and protest. The work within the exhibition responds to the urgency of representation needed for young people in the wider conversation around the climate crisis we all face today. This project has helped to equip these young people with the skills and understanding to recognise the value and importance of their role as a future generation living within a climate crisis.
By highlighting and platforming the opinions of young people on this key issue, we hope to inspire, inform and question ways to make positive change for our future – hearing from voices so often lost in this vital area of work. Together, we are turning up the volume on their voice, from a chatter to a shout.
Student Alex Colebrook said: I have enjoyed going out with the group and taking photos of different things related to the project. I have learned the extent of climate change and the effects it has on our planet. I have really enjoyed my time doing this project and working with the people I have done.
The students involved in this project are:
Ellie Bowers
Alec Colebrook
Patsie Davies
Ruby Donaldson
Mia Selby
Riley White
Image: Ellie Bowers