HND Photography students seek exposure with new photojournalism exhibition

The Exposed Exhibition has been curated by HND Photography students; Andy Blakeley, Thomas Allbut, Mia Palmer and Laura Colclough. The theme “exposed” chosen as they seek exposure for their work and aim to create a platform to launch their careers.

Part of their "Specialist Practice in Photography" assignment, the exhibition has a strong focus on photojournalism with four exciting stories being told, these include; the story of local award-winning rock band Honey, using photography to capture their unity, charismatic personalities and raw energy as they complete their quest for stardom.

A personal insight in the ability to overcome the difficulties and struggles of dyslexia, dyspraxia and autism suffered by the photographer. The impact of fast fashion on the ecosystem and the documentation of the contemporary drag scene, portraying the different personalities of the performers and celebrating diversity with culture.

Student Andy Blakely said: “We came up with the concept of using a trendy bar or restaurant as the location for our exhibition as it would provide a continuous footfall and promotion for people to view our work. With the owners being keen supporters of the local creative arts, the quirky venue of Mellards Bar was chosen as it’s steeped in industrial history as an iron mongers warehouse, with the owners retaining many of the original features of Victorian architecture.”

He added: “Working with the venue on this project, the owners have been really supportive and we hope to work with them again on future exhibitions.”

Mia Palmer whose collection focuses on the ecosystem said: “Every time we wash our clothes, approximately 1900 micro fibres are released in to the ocean for sea life to consume, which we later consume ourselves – the collection aims to highlight the problem in a bid for change.”

Opened Thursday 11 April, the exhibition runs until Thursday 25 April, at Mellards Bar, Ironmarket, Newcastle-under-Lyme at the following times:

• Monday - Thursday: 11am – 10pm
• Friday - Saturday: 11am – 11pm Sunday: 12pm – 6pm

Newcastle College is renowned for its Art, Design and Media courses at various levels, including A Levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships and recreational courses. For more information about the courses on offer, click here or call 01782 254254.