The goal of the Faces From Our Town photographic workshops is to show students how to produce powerful portraits using simple lighting and camera techniques, interesting composition and props.

The engaging and highly creative Faces From Our Town photographic workshops will culminate in the production of a powerful portrait and story of a selected student and or community members who will share their story of migration to Tasmania. 

Individuals chosen for the portraits are carefully selected by each school community, a palawa adviser, The Tasmanian Art Teachers Association (TATA), the Students Against Racism group, the Migrant Resource Centre, the Department for education of students and young people, the participating schools and local councils.

Major themes and goals examined through the final portraits include promoting equality, the value of multiculturalism and immigration, combating racism and discrimination, promoting empathy and compassion and adding to community cohesion.  

The workshops will also examine photographic portraiture’s role in defining Australia’s social history and identity.

Workshops will also address important issues regarding body image and how digitally manipulated images often promote unrealistic body types, which can affect young people’s sense of self-worth and well-being.

Students will also learning how to plan ideas and think creatively and will be given a journal and worksheets which will guide them through the workshop

Students can also explore pathways for further study and potential employment and self-employment.