The photographs displayed throughout Milner Library’s main floor were created during workshops held at University Galleries and UNITY Community Center in Normal. Led by photographer and educator Jeri Kelly, the workshops were presented to 4-H students from McLean, Livingston, and Woodford Counties. After being introduced to the history, techniques, and uses of photography, each student created photographs that documented their experiences. In addition to the workshops, students were invited to assist photographers Alex Hogan and Marissa Webb as they documented the 2013 McLean, Livingston, and Woodford County Fairs. These opportunities provided 4-H’ers the chance to witness photography in action: to see photography preserving history and defining personal memories.
The Rural Documentary Collection Youth Project is collaboration between University Galleries and the University of Illinois Extension for McLean, Livingston, and Woodford Counties. Funding for this project has been provided by a grant from the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation—Mirza Arts and Culture Fund.
This exhibition is presented in conjunction with the Rural Documentary Collection Exhibition, on view at University Galleries from August 4 through October 13, 2013.