To see the images as a result of this project please click here

Beyond Vision is a participatory photography project set up by two photographers, Lara Kay and Lynn Weddle, to run alongside the Charlotte Miller Art Project.

The projects aim is to work using photography as a socially engaged practice with people at risk of social exclusion especially in the developing world.

In 2005 Lara and Lynn traveled to Guayaquil in Ecuador to work with the street children involved in the art project. Ecuador was their destination for one reason. Their close friend Charlotte Miller who they met at Art College inspired the project. They choose to integrate another medium into the Charlotte Miller Art Project by using photography, as they believe it is an important and accessible medium for communicating ideas and concepts to other people.

The children were given various themes to allow for exploration and expression of their lives, families and comminutes, through photography. The children were taught the basics of photography, and encouraged to think creativity, something they have not been given the chance to do before. The main focus of the project was on realization and reflection as Lara and Lynn believe this is just as important as the making of a photograph because without this emphasis the children would have nothing to build on.

“Beyond Vision place a great deal of importance in reflection, especially in the self. We believe the act of taking the photographs and the thought behind the decisive moment is of greater importance than the final product. The process and the journey these young people took offered them a chance to consider their lives and how others may perceive their lives. All these children have low self-esteem so the positive act of image creation offered them the chance to believe in themselves.”

Lara Kay, Beyond Vision

The project is now collaborating with Photovoice a UK based charity that specializes in participatory photography practice. In late 2007 the Beyond Vision photography project plans to become a self-advocacy and vocational training program for the street children. Over two years Beyond Vision will provide photographic training to 45 street children in conjunction with the Chantal Fontine School of photography. This training will not only provide them with vocational opportunities but with a creative outlet and chance to document their lives.

Exhibitions of the young people’s images both in Ecuador and internationally will raise awareness and educate as to the needs of these children, breaking down stereotypes and creating opportunities for income generation through print sales and promotional opportunities.

To see the images as a result of this project please click here