Belonging and collaboration have always been central principles in the world of arts and academia. However, in the wake of a global pandemic, these concepts have taken on an even greater importance. The isolating effects of the COVID-19 environment highlighted the deep human need to connect, collaborate, and feel part of something bigger. For many, the post-COVID landscape presented a stark challenge: how to rebuild the sense of community that had been eroded by prolonged periods of separation and remote engagement. Against such a backdrop, the value of shared projects and collective efforts became unmistakably clear, acting as bridges reconnecting individuals to each other and to their mutual passions.
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Reflecting on my own experiences, I am reminded of a project I undertook in the early 2000s in western Kenya. Immersed within the community, I worked alongside local resource centres and groups to produce images that would be meaningful to them. Through portraits and documentation of group activities, not only did we capture moments, but we also forged lasting relationships and a shared sense of purpose. This effort, titled "Picturing Community: Ugunja, Kenya," was a testament to the power of art and collaboration in building bridges and fostering belonging.
The world of academia is often filled with initiatives aimed at nurturing a sense of belonging among its students. Whilst well-intentioned, these efforts can sometimes feel insincere, overly directed, or too prescriptive, causing them to fall short of their intended impact. In disciplines like the arts, where passion and identity are deeply intertwined, these attempts can feel especially mismatched. Photographers, for instance, often identify deeply with their craft, viewing it not merely as a field of study but as an intrinsic part of their identity.
Artists—whether they're painters, printmakers, sculptors, or photographers—share this deep connection with their discipline. They don't just practise their craft; they live it. Their work is a reflection of their innermost thoughts, emotions, and perspectives. Thus, traditional attempts at fostering belonging can sometimes be off the mark with them. Generic initiatives that aren't discipline-specific can feel out of place, failing to resonate with those who have a strong sense of identity in their craft.
In recognising this unique challenge, the "Picturing Community: School of Art" project was initiated. This effort is not just another university programme; it's a genuine bid to capture the essence and spirit of RMIT's School of Arts. Through a series of editorial style shoots carried out by students, the project aims to portray the myriad disciplines available at RMIT. From behind-the-scenes glimpses to portraits of artists in their element, the project seeks to document the vibrant tapestry of creativity that flourishes within the institution.
The project's foundation lies in collaboration and networking. By enabling students from various disciplines to work together, it not only provides them with valuable experiences but also allows them to forge connections that could last a lifetime. This collective approach is not just about producing compelling images; it's about building a community. Every photoshoot, every interaction, and every piece of art crafted becomes a mini 'belonging' event, organically nurturing connections amongst the students.
In essence, "Picturing Community: School of Art" is more than just a project. It's a reflection of RMIT's commitment to celebrating its diverse artistic community. It's about acknowledging the uniqueness of each discipline while also highlighting the shared passion that unites them all. This catalogue is not just a collection of images; it's a testament to the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and community that defines RMIT's School of Art
