CLAIRE HARWOOD & JEMMA HOWARD - Site Unseen 05 Directors
Thank goodness for those insightful photography students at Mt Lawley Tafe in 1997, for without them the student photography scene would be a dull experience. Their dream now motivates students to strive for the highest and look outside the professional arena, which can sometimes put chains on creativity. The first edition and accompanying exhibition occurred in 1998 and since then Site Unseen has gone from strength to strength. All West Australian tertiary photography students are now included, there is a Gallery based website and Site Unseen 05 will travel regionally before it heads interstate. This interstate tour will introduce Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia to the wonderful project that is, Site Unseen.
Photography is a craft and a gift, to those who take them, create them, buy them and simply enjoy viewing them. This is why when we were presented with this photographic opportunity we grabbed it, tight, with both hands. We, like the committee members before us, recognise the significance of Site Unseen and believe whole heartedly in its intention; to produce a publication that showcases the talent of Western Australian student photographers, so that they may use it as a stepping stone to launch themselves into the professional arena. Site Unseen also makes the public aware that photography has a well earned place in the art world and it is an essential means of education and communication.
Occasionally, Site Unseen launched us into fits of madness, but these moments were short lived and sometimes photographed! The Site Unseen experience has been a remarkable personal and professional journey. It is hard to describe our attachment to the project, but to every student who is truly passionate about photography, we urge you to get involved. The people you meet and the lessons you learn will be with you for life.
In February 2004 we hand picked six members of the 05 committee. Mid year we feared we would become just seven, however in June we actually gained a member and became a committee of nine. Success and fun is guaranteed with team members Becky Lee, Dayna Patterson, Joel Phillips, Jono Trask, Karen Hinds, Kat Perry and Kent Blizzard. The 05 committee worked tirelessly, embracing every challenge to produce this fine edition of Site Unseen, hence ensuring its survival and ongoing success.
Site Unseen is of vital importance to the photographic industry, not only in W.A but Australia wide. Site Unseen encourages those already in the industry to maintain their skills and integrity. To students Site Unseen is the chance to be seen beyond your campus walls, to learn a different side of photography and to stretch your wings. For the harder you work at your accent, the more satisfaction you attain from the view.
Thank goodness for those insightful photography students at Mt Lawley Tafe in 1997, for without them the student photography scene would be a dull experience. Their dream now motivates students to strive for the highest and look outside the professional arena, which can sometimes put chains on creativity. The first edition and accompanying exhibition occurred in 1998 and since then Site Unseen has gone from strength to strength. All West Australian tertiary photography students are now included, there is a Gallery based website and Site Unseen 05 will travel regionally before it heads interstate. This interstate tour will introduce Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia to the wonderful project that is, Site Unseen.
