Exhibition Statement

This is an exhibition to honor the photographer eye and creative process of the artist in residence and youth who participated in a two-week artist residency and art photography camp. The Watermark Art Center partnered with Gizhiigin Arts Incubator to initiate the camp in conjunction with an artist residency featuring emerging filmmaker and photographer, Falcon Gott from the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation. Four middle and high school youth committed their time an energy to this two-week experience.

As the lead instructor for the camp Gott shared concepts, content, and approach to taking photographs. As well, he introduced them evaluating their work, editing techniques, and selection of work. Professional photographers Ne-Dah-Ness Rose Greene, Leech Lake Band Ojibwe, and Joseph Allen, Rosebud Sioux, were guest instructors each sharing their knowledge for a day, which provided participants with a diverse learning experience. Assistant instructor Ixel Janine (White Earth Ojibwe Band) student intern from IAIA also participated in the workshop.

Students were taken through the steps of the working photographer, from use of various cameras, approaches to taking photographs, subject variety, selecting and editing their work, making titles. During the workshop students were able to gain exposure to professional processes and creative ideas. They made connections with each other and shared ideas and their work taking full advantage of the experience. The result of their efforts and how they utilized concepts and techniques is evident in the caliber of work on display. We are very proud to exhibit the work of these artists and we look forward to what each of them will do in the future as creative Indigenous photographers.