08.05.06
University College Falmouth community photography project unites history with the future

First-year students from University College Falmouth's BA (Hons) Photography course have joined forces with The National Trust to help facilitate a photography project for local schoolchildren at its Cornish Mines and Engines site in Pool.

From 3 to 5 May, 90 pupils between the ages of eight and eleven from St John's School, Treloweth School and Pennoweth School were given the opportunity to learn camera techniques, take photographs of the historic property and develop their images for an exhibition to be held at the end of the month.

The College's photography students provided participants with an insight into the history of photographic equipment through the use of pinhole cameras, as well as demonstrating the latest digital technology and imaging software.

Cornish Mines and Engines is a visually dramatic reminder of Cornwall's rich mining heritage. With a 90 inch beam engine and expertly preserved engine houses, it provided a fascinating environment in which to explore the art of photography.

"This is an invaluable opportunity for The National Trust to partner with University College Falmouth and local schools," says National Trust South West Learning Officer, Laura Martin. "The project offered students the chance to enhance their communication skills further; the chance for the children to learn about photographic techniques in a unique setting; and the chance for the National Trust to share a location which is an important historical landmark in the county.

"As well as enjoying the experience – from working on project briefs, undertaking site visits, and transforming a workshop into a darkroom – students have also gained valuable presentation, time management and organisational skills, which will stand them in good stead for the future," adds Senior BA(Hons) Photography Lecturer, Steven Tynan. "It is also very important for us to connect with our community and we very much appreciate the support of the schools involved and the National Trust in helping us to make that a reality."

The project was funded by University College Falmouth, the National Trust, The Cornwall Association and The Tanner Trust. Technical assistance was provided by University College Falmouth's David Mann and Tony Mann.

After a private view for the participants, parents and teachers at University College Falmouth's Design Centre at Tremough, the exhibition will then be relocated to Cornish Mines and Engines for the viewing public to enjoy from 31 May to 11 June.

For further information about BA (Hons) Photography at University College Falmouth, please contact Admissions on 01326 211077, email admissions@falmouth.ac.uk or visit www.falmouth.ac.uk/photography.

For further information about Cornish Mines & Engines, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or contact Jane Affleck on 01209 315027.

For further information please contact Jilly Easterby at University College Falmouth on 01326 211077 or email: jilly.easterby@falmouth.ac.uk.

The Objective One Programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has invested in CUC, both Phase 1 and Phase 2 through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). University College Falmouth is a partner of the CUC.

Editor's notes:

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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