Gallery
LightTAG visits the Gulbenkian at the University of Kent
From Friday 10 March 2011
LightTAG visits the Gulbenkian at the University of Kent
An exhibition of ‘light graffiti’ created by disadvantaged youths from across the South East will go on display at the Gulbenkian on 10th March 2011.
LightTAG, which was led by visual artist Tine Bech, from the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), and scientist Dr Kathryn Harkup, of the University of Surrey, aimed to give young people the opportunity to explore youth culture – and challenge society’s perception of it – through the science and art of light.
The project has been touring galleries across Surrey, Hampshire and Kent since it was officially launched at the BFI London in February.
Participants at the workshops in Staines, Hounslow, Southampton, Farnham, Guildford and Canterbury learned how coloured LEDs could be used to create vibrant pieces of art and animations through an innovative camera technique.
Tine Bech said: “We have been overwhelmed by the positive response to LightTAG from the young people we worked with and their families and the arts and science communities nationwide.
“We are very proud of the youngsters for producing such fantastic work and it goes to show what can be made if they are given the opportunity to take part in special projects like this.”
LightTAG is a collaboration between UCA, the University of Surrey and the South East Physics Network (SEPnet). LightTAG worked with groups of young people who are either: care leavers; disabled; not in education; employment or training and who live within reach of SEPnet universities.
The project has enabled over 62 young people from six communities to build confidence and achievement through a unique science and media art collaboration.
Dr Kathryn Harkup said: “Youngsters from disadvantaged areas don’t normally receive opportunities like this, so it has been great for them to visit a local university, learn from scientists and artists and then create quality pieces of work.
“It’s also been fantastic to have some of the kids come up to me with their own cameras asking how they can make more LightTAGs and continue this project at home with their friends.”
Petra-Marie Clarke, 16, who took part in the Canterbury workshop and attended via Kent & Medway Connexions, said: “It’s surreal to have my work on show at the BFI in London - it’s a big achievement for me. LightTAG has given me a big confidence boost as I now know that my artwork is good enough to be shown in a gallery.”
David Hassan, 15, from Canterbury Connexions, said: “I thought it was great fun. It’s been great for my confidence as I’ve had to stand in front of people and discuss how to do things which will help me later on in life.
“It’s given me a better idea about what it’s like to go to university and also I learned that science and art can combine.”
For more information visit: www.lighttag.wordpress.com; www.twitter.com/lighttag or search “LightTAG” on Facebook.
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